WASHINGTON: The US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has recommended sanctions against India’s Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), citing concerns over alleged attacks on religious minorities.
The commission has also opposed an upcoming visit to New York by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, who is expected to visit the city on August 29.
USCIRF Calls for Action Against RSS
According to international media reports, USCIRF Chair Asif Mahmood, a Pakistani-American, has urged the US government to impose sanctions on the RSS.
The commission has also called on Washington to deny diplomatic privileges to RSS leaders and consider sanctions against members allegedly involved in violations of religious freedom.
USCIRF says groups associated with the RSS have faced allegations of attacks against religious minorities in India.
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Commission Previously Recommended Targeted Sanctions
USCIRF also raised concerns about religious freedom in India in its annual report earlier this year.
In March, the commission recommended targeted sanctions against certain individuals and organizations. It also called for sanctions against the RSS and India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW).
The commission further recommended that the US designate India as a Country of Particular Concern over religious freedom issues.
India Rejects USCIRF Recommendations
India has rejected the commission’s criticism.
Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal accused USCIRF of making what he described as insulting and provocative statements about India.
Jaiswal said India should stay away from organizations that, in his view, lack credibility and pursue their own agenda.
He also said India did not expect the commission to recognize the reality of the country’s multicultural system.
What Is USCIRF?
The US Commission on International Religious Freedom is an independent, bipartisan US federal body.
It provides policy recommendations on religious freedom to the US president, secretary of state and Congress.
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The latest recommendation could further increase diplomatic scrutiny of India’s record on religious freedom ahead of Bhagwat’s planned New York visit.
