India has sharply criticized the latest US State Department report on human rights, calling it “deeply biased” and indicative of a “poor understanding” of Indian democracy. During a press briefing, the Ministry of External Affairs’ spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, urged the dismissal of the report, emphasizing that India attaches “no value to it.”
The US report had pointed out what it described as “numerous instances” where the Indian government and its affiliates allegedly exerted pressure on media outlets critical of its policies. However, India contends that the report fails to accurately reflect the country’s commitment to democratic values and principles.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also voiced criticisms against the Western media’s portrayal of India’s democratic processes. In a speech in Hyderabad, Jaishankar highlighted the high voter turnout in Indian elections despite challenging conditions, suggesting that this demonstrates a robust democratic engagement contrary to the criticisms levelled by the West.
The exchange marks another instance of India asserting its stance against international critiques of its domestic policies, reinforcing its growing confidence in global affairs. The situation underscores ongoing tensions between perceptions of human rights practices in India and the country’s assertive response to external evaluations.
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