US Human Rights report raises concerns over Manipur situation, Hardeep Nijjar's killing included

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• Apr 23, 2024 | Pinaki Goswami

The differing perspectives between the US report and India's stance highlight ongoing debates over human rights assessments...

Digital Desk: The United States' 2023 Human Rights Report has shed light on what it terms "significant" abuses in Manipur, particularly following the eruption of ethnic conflict in May 2023. Among the focal points of concern is the tragic killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, which has captured international attention and cast a spotlight on human rights violations in the region.

Nijjar's killing mentioned prominently in the report, is emblematic of a wider pattern of violence and instability in Manipur, where tensions have been escalating in recent times. The report, issued by the US State Department, underscores various troubling issues, including raids by tax authorities on media outlets like the BBC and instances of transnational repression, such as Nijjar's killing in Canada.

While the report has garnered international outcry, India has yet to issue an official response. However, the External Affairs Ministry has previously dismissed similar reports from the US, denouncing them as based on "misinformation and flawed understanding." Past criticisms from the MEA have labeled such reports as containing "motivated and biased commentary by some US officials."

Hardeep Singh Nijjar was a prominent figure in the Sikh activist community, renowned for his advocacy of Sikh rights. His reported killing in Manipur has sparked outrage and demands for justice from various quarters, including human rights organizations and Sikh community leaders.

The differing perspectives between the US report and India's stance highlight ongoing debates over human rights assessments and international scrutiny of domestic affairs. As the discourse continues, the quest for accountability and justice in Manipur remains paramount on the global agenda.