As the world observes Human Rights Day, concerns over escalating rights violations in India have taken center stage. Despite being a signatory to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights for 77 years, India faces criticism for its treatment of minorities, women, and marginalized groups.
Reports highlight the implementation of religiously motivated policies and increasing incidents of violence against minorities, including Muslims, Christians, and Dalits. Analysts have pointed to measures like the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the abrogation of Article 370, which stripped Jammu and Kashmir of its special status in August 2019, as sources of heightened tensions.
In the wake of Article 370's revocation, over 1,000 Kashmiris were reportedly killed, and 25,000 detained, according to Kashmir Media Service. Additionally, over 1200 properties were destroyed, and 200 children orphaned. Activists have raised alarms over the suppression of dissent and alleged human rights violations in the region.
The plight of religious minorities is another major concern. The destruction of over 500 mosques and shrines, including the infamous demolition of Babri Masjid in 1992, has deepened religious divides. Christians have also faced targeted violence, with 400 incidents reported across 23 states in 2023 alone.
Marginalized communities, such as Dalits, continue to endure systemic discrimination and violence. Data from the National Crime Records Bureau reveals over 60,000 crimes against Dalits were reported in 2021, averaging one case every 10 minutes.
Women’s rights also remain under threat, with over 400,000 cases of sexual assault recorded in 2021. Experts say these figures are only the tip of the iceberg, given widespread underreporting.
Freedom of the press is another growing concern. Prominent organizations like Amnesty International and Oxfam have faced crackdowns, with Amnesty closing its India offices in 2020. In 2023, BBC India was raided for airing a documentary critical of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration.
Critics argue that the Modi government’s policies have exacerbated these issues, eroding India’s commitment to human rights. As international organizations urge accountability, the need for systemic reforms remains a pressing challenge.
