The Human Rights and Social Justice Mission expresses serious concern regarding reports of alleged human rights violations affecting religious #minorities in #India, particularly incidents reported during the #Christmas period. These allegations, if confirmed, may indicate patterns of intolerance and discrimination that warrant urgent attention under #international #human_rights_law.
While Christmas was observed globally as a peaceful religious and cultural celebration, information received from multiple locations in India suggests that members of the Christian minority community were subjected to acts of violence and intimidation. Reported incidents include the vandalization of places of worship, destruction of religious symbols and decorations, and interference with peaceful religious gatherings. Such acts may amount to violations of the right to freedom of religion or belief and the right to peaceful assembly.
Under the Constitution of India, the State bears the primary responsibility to guarantee equality before the law (Article 14), prohibit discrimination on religious grounds (Article 15), ensure the right to life and personal liberty (Article 21), and protect freedom of conscience and the right to freely profess, practice, and propagate religion (Article 25). Any failure to prevent, investigate, or remedy such acts may engage State responsibility.
India is also a State Party to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and has affirmed its commitment to the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). In this regard, the reported incidents raise concerns under Articles 2, 18, 20, and 26 of the ICCPR, which require States to ensure non-discrimination, protect freedom of religion or belief, prohibit advocacy of religious hatred, and guarantee equality before the law.
Of particular concern are allegations that members of minority communities continue to face discrimination, threats to life, and restrictions on the exercise of their religious freedoms. Such developments risk creating a climate of fear and impunity, which may have a chilling effect on the exercise of fundamental rights and undermine social cohesion.
The international community has increasingly expressed concern regarding the protection of minority rights in India. In line with established UN practice, human rights situations that demonstrate recurring patterns of violations are considered matters of legitimate international concern and dialogue.
The #Human_Rights_and_Social_Justice_Mission respectfully urges the Government of India and relevant State authorities to #Ensure_prompt, #impartial, #independent, and effective #investigations into all reported incidents of #violence, #vandalism, and #intimidation;
Hold those responsible accountable through fair and transparent judicial processes;
Take preventive measures to #protect minority communities and their places of #worship, including during religious #festivals;
Publicly reaffirm the State’s commitment to freedom of religion or belief, equality, and non-discrimination;
Provide effective remedies and reparations to victims in accordance with international human rights standards.
The Mission underscores that the protection of minority rights and freedom of religion or belief is an essential component of democratic governance and the rule of law. Continued engagement with UN human rights mechanisms, including Special Procedures mandate holders, is vital to ensuring accountability, prevention of future violations, and the promotion of a pluralistic and inclusive society.
The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has wished everyone a joyous Christmas filled with peace, compassion and hope. ”May the teachings of Jesus_Christ strengthen harmony in our society”.
The Prime Minister posted on X
