USCIRF Calls on Washington to Hold Perpetrators Accountable
A US government advisory body has urged Washington to pressure Indian authorities to hold attackers accountable. The US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) highlighted a rise in mob violence targeting Christians and Muslims in India.
The commission warned that these attacks threaten religious freedom and called for urgent action from both local authorities and international observers.
Attacks Against Christians Increase
USCIRF Chair Vicky Hartzler cited an incident in Odisha, where Pastor Bipin Bihari Naik was attacked while holding Sunday prayers in his home. The mob accused him of forced religious conversions, dragged him outside, and reportedly forced him to eat cow dung.
Hartzler said such incidents justify the US Department of State designating India as a Country of Particular Concern, a status for countries with severe religious freedom violations.
Pattern of Violence Across States
The Odisha attack is part of a broader trend of harassment and violence:
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In Maharashtra, four Christian families reportedly lost their homes for refusing to renounce their faith.
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In Andhra Pradesh, a minibus carrying evangelical Christians was attacked, set on fire, and passengers beaten with cricket bats and stones.
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In Chhattisgarh, a mob reportedly set Muslim homes on fire after allegations of temple desecration.
Anti-Conversion Laws Raise Concerns
USCIRF Vice Chair Asif Mahmood said vigilante groups often use forced conversion claims to justify violence and arrests. He warned that tightened anti-conversion laws in several states have made abuse more likely.
He cited the arrest of 12 Muslim men in Uttar Pradesh for praying in a private home. In some states, those convicted under these laws face life imprisonment.
USCIRF Recommendations
In its 2025 annual report, USCIRF recommended the US Department of State designate India as a Country of Particular Concern. The report noted systematic violations of religious freedom.
The commission also released updates on religious persecution in India and held a January hearing on challenges faced by Christian communities.
India’s Response
India’s government rejected international criticism, calling such reports biased and an interference in internal affairs.
The US panel’s warning highlights ongoing concern over religious freedom and minority rights in India.
