Washington: The US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has once again urged the US State Department to designate India as a “Country of Particular Concern,” citing what it describes as ongoing and serious concerns about religious freedom. According to Beyond Time News, the remarks were made during a recent hearing in Washington involving commissioners, lawmakers, and legal experts.
Concerns Over Religious Freedom Conditions
USCIRF leadership said religious freedom conditions in India continue to decline. Commission chair Vicky Hartzler stated that the 2026 report again recommends India for the designation due to what she called “systematic and egregious” violations.
She added that discriminatory laws, arrests of religious figures, and insufficient protection for minority communities remain major issues. She also pointed to the increasing use of restrictive state-level legislation.
Anti-Conversion Laws and Legal Framework
Officials highlighted the spread of anti-conversion laws across Indian states. According to USCIRF, 13 out of 28 states now enforce such laws, which carry strict penalties in some cases.
The commission argued that these laws are often linked to broader concerns about restrictions on religious freedom and minority rights.
Allegations of Transnational Repression
Vice Chair Asif Mahmood raised concerns about alleged actions beyond India’s borders. He referred to what he described as surveillance and pressure on critics and minority advocates living abroad.
Lawmakers and experts also discussed claims of intimidation targeting diaspora communities, particularly in North America.
Civil Society and Legal Concerns
US Representative Chris Smith criticized India’s Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), arguing that it could impact religious and charitable organizations. He said proposed changes might affect institutions such as schools, hospitals, and churches.
He also warned that restrictions on foreign funding could weaken civil society groups working in India.
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Academic and Human Rights Perspectives
Several academics and researchers also shared concerns during the hearing. Some said minority communities face increasing pressure and violence, while accountability for such incidents remains limited.
Others highlighted reports of forced displacement and treatment of refugee communities, including Rohingya groups.
Broader Debate on Rights and Governance
Experts at the hearing described what they see as growing risks for minority communities and activists. They pointed to global reports and risk assessments that rank India among countries with elevated concern levels for mass violence risks.
However, these claims remain part of ongoing international debate, with differing views among governments and observers.
Conclusion
The USCIRF hearing once again brought global attention to religious freedom issues in India. While the commission recommends stricter international classification, the matter continues to generate discussion among policymakers, scholars, and rights groups worldwide.
