The Russian government alleges the United States aims to destabilize India’s internal political situation and disrupt the 2024 general elections. This accusation comes after a US federal commission criticized India over alleged religious freedom violations.
Russian Spokesperson’s Comments
- Maria Zakharova, Russian foreign ministry spokesperson, says the US lacks understanding of India’s national mentality and history
- She calls the US accusations against India “unfounded” and “disrespectful”
- Zakharova states the reason behind the US criticism is to “unbalance the internal political situation in India and complicate the general elections”
- She says Washington’s actions clearly interfere in India’s internal affairs
US Commission’s Report on India
- The US Commission on International Religious Freedom’s annual report accuses India of religious freedom violations
- It recommends the US declare India a “Country of Particular Concern”
- The report criticizes India’s BJP party for “discriminatory” nationalist policies
- It flags laws like UAPA, FCRA, CAA and anti-conversion/cow slaughter laws allegedly targeting minorities
India’s Response
- India’s foreign ministry slams the US commission for trying to “interfere” in elections
- It calls the commission a “biased entity with a political agenda” indulging in “propaganda”
- India rejects the commission’s efforts to “interfere in the largest electoral exercise”
Russian Denial of Indian Involvement in Alleged Assassination Plot
- Russia says the US has not provided reliable evidence of Indian citizens’ involvement in an alleged plot to kill Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun
- It calls speculation on this topic without evidence “unacceptable”
Russia Criticizes US Over Washington Post Report
- Russia dismisses and criticizes a Washington Post report implicating an Indian official in the alleged assassination plot
- It says the US should use terms like “repressive regime” for itself rather than others