US Human Rights Report 2023 discusses human rights abuses in Manipur post ethnic conflict Report highlights murder of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, drawing international scrutiny India yet to officially respond to the report, MEA has previously dismissed similar reports as ‘misinformation’

The United States’ 2023 Human Rights Report has drawn attention to what it terms “significant” abuses in Manipur, particularly in the wake of ethnic conflict that erupted in May 2023.

Among the highlighted concerns is the tragic killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, which has garnered international attention and raised questions about human rights violations in the region.

Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s killing, mentioned in the report, represents a broader pattern of violence and unrest in Manipur, where tensions have escalated in recent times. This report, released by the US State Department, highlights several concerning issues, including raids conducted by tax authorities on media outlets like the BBC and instances of transnational repression, such as the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada.

While the report has garnered international attention, India has not yet issued an official response. However, the External Affairs Ministry has previously dismissed similar reports from the US, labeling them as based on “misinformation and flawed understanding.” In the past, the MEA has criticized such reports as containing “motivated and biased commentary by some US officials.”

Hardeep Singh Nijjar was a prominent Sikh activist known for his advocacy work on behalf of Sikh rights and concerns. His killing, reportedly in Manipur, has sparked outrage and calls for justice from various quarters, including human rights organizations and Sikh community leaders.

The contrasting perspectives between the US report and India’s stance reflect ongoing debates and discussions regarding human rights assessments and international scrutiny of domestic affairs.