US Senators Call on President Biden to Address Democratic Norms and Human Rights During PM Modi's State Visit

Washington— As Prime Minister Modi embarks on his state visit to the United States this Tuesday, a number of US Senators and Congress members have penned a letter to President Joe Biden, expressing concerns about democratic norms and human rights in India.

The lawmakers have urged President Biden to question PM Modi about rankings for press and religious freedoms in India. The letter states, “A series of independent, credible reports reflect troubling signs in India toward the shrinking of political space, the rise of religious intolerance, the targeting of civil society organizations and journalists, and growing restrictions on press freedoms and internet access.”

While emphasizing their commitment to strengthening collaboration between the United States and India in defense, supply chain resilience, pharmaceuticals, and promoting a vibrant cultural exchange, the letter explicitly states that they do not endorse any specific political party or leader in India.

The letter also highlights the importance of discussing the full range of issues crucial to a successful, strong, and long-term relationship between the two countries. It states, “We want the U.S.-India relationship to not only be built on shared interests but also on shared values.”

Moreover, the letter draws attention to the powerful relationship between India and the USA by citing examples of Martin Luther King Jr. and Mahatma Gandhi. It notes, "Both the United States and India enshrined human rights, including free speech, freedom of the press, and religious freedom, in our constitutions. And we share a special bond to moral leaders who shaped our histories. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who gave his life in pursuit of building the beloved community here in the United States, was an ardent student of the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi known in India as the 'Father of the Nation.' Both King and Gandhi had a vision of building a more perfect union among people from different backgrounds, races, and faiths – Gandhi in India and King in the United States. We share their vision."

Lead authors of the letter include Indian-origin Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (Democrat, Washington) and Senator Chris van Hollen (Democrat, Maryland).