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The release of the U.S. government's annual human rights report for 2024 has ignited a fresh wave of scrutiny over the human rights records of India and Pakistan. This year's report, notably scaled back and softened in its criticism, particularly concerning key U.S. allies, has drawn attention not only for its content but also for its apparent shift in tone under the Trump administration. The report specifically states that India “took minimal credible steps” to combat human rights abuses, while Pakistan “rarely took credible steps,” a statement that immediately sparked reactions and demands for more robust action from both nations. The report, documenting instances of human rights abuses in 2024, was released on August 12, 2025, a date that will likely be remembered for the heightened focus it brought to the issue of human rights in the South Asian region. The fact that Indian and Pakistani embassies in Washington offered no immediate comment further underscored the sensitivity of the matter and the potential diplomatic ramifications. The reduced length and softer language of the report compared to previous years has raised questions about the administration's priorities and its willingness to hold even strategic partners accountable for human rights violations. This change has prompted concern among human rights organizations and international observers who fear that the U.S. is prioritizing geopolitical considerations over its commitment to promoting human rights worldwide. The context surrounding the report is crucial. India has emerged as a significant U.S. partner in recent years, largely due to Washington's efforts to counter China's growing influence. However, trade tensions have arisen due to tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on Indian goods. Pakistan, on the other hand, holds the status of a non-NATO U.S. ally. These complex relationships appear to be influencing the tone and scope of the human rights assessment, with critics arguing that the U.S. is hesitant to strongly condemn abuses for fear of jeopardizing strategic alliances. The report's findings echo long-standing concerns raised by human rights organizations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch. These organizations have consistently criticized the Indian government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi for its treatment of minorities, particularly Muslims. Issues of concern include rising hate speech, the implementation of a religion-based citizenship law deemed “fundamentally discriminatory” by the U.N., anti-conversion legislation that challenges freedom of belief, the revocation of Muslim-majority Kashmir's special status in 2019, and the demolition of properties owned by Muslims. The Indian government has consistently denied allegations of discrimination, arguing that its policies, such as food subsidy programs and electrification drives, benefit all citizens regardless of their religious or ethnic background. However, critics argue that these policies are implemented in a way that disproportionately disadvantages minorities and that the government has failed to adequately address the root causes of discrimination and violence. In Pakistan, Amnesty International has accused government authorities of failing to protect minorities, including Christians, and of using “excessive and unnecessary force” against civil society voices and protesters. Concerns have also been raised about the fairness of the 2024 Pakistani elections, with rights groups, the U.N., and Western governments expressing concern about potential irregularities and restrictions on freedom of expression. The detention of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, which a U.N. working group deemed a violation of international law, has further exacerbated these concerns. The Pakistani government has dismissed allegations of rigging and foul play in the elections, maintaining that the electoral process was fair and transparent. However, critics argue that the government has taken steps to suppress dissent and restrict the participation of opposition parties in the political process. The report also highlights the ongoing complexities in U.S. relations with both India and Pakistan. While Washington and New Delhi have yet to reach a trade deal, the United States has recently reached an agreement with Pakistan. Furthermore, President Trump angered India by claiming credit for an India-Pakistan ceasefire in May following hostilities in Kashmir, a region that has been a source of conflict between the two countries for decades. India has consistently maintained that it prefers to resolve its disputes with Pakistan bilaterally, without outside involvement. This stance reflects a deep-seated distrust of external mediation and a desire to maintain control over the resolution of the Kashmir issue. The U.S. report, with its softened criticism, serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between promoting human rights and pursuing strategic interests in international relations. The impact of this report will be felt by civil society organizations, policymakers, and citizens in both India and Pakistan. Whether it will lead to meaningful changes in human rights practices remains to be seen, but it has undoubtedly raised the profile of these issues and prompted further debate and scrutiny.
The implications of this report extend beyond mere diplomatic tensions. For human rights activists in India and Pakistan, it serves as both a validation of their long-standing concerns and a source of potential frustration. The relatively weak language used by the U.S. government may embolden those who seek to suppress dissent and violate human rights, while simultaneously making it more difficult for activists to advocate for change. The report's release comes at a time when both India and Pakistan are facing significant internal challenges. In India, the rise of Hindu nationalism has fueled discrimination and violence against religious minorities, particularly Muslims. The government's policies and rhetoric have often been seen as contributing to this climate of intolerance, creating a sense of insecurity and marginalization among minority communities. In Pakistan, the government is struggling to address a range of issues, including economic instability, political polarization, and the threat of terrorism. The country's human rights record has been marred by allegations of extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and restrictions on freedom of expression. The challenges faced by India and Pakistan are further compounded by the complex geopolitical landscape of the region. The ongoing rivalry between India and Pakistan, the rise of China, and the presence of various non-state actors all contribute to instability and create opportunities for human rights abuses to occur. In this context, the role of external actors, such as the United States, is crucial. The U.S. has the potential to use its influence to promote human rights and encourage reforms in both India and Pakistan. However, its effectiveness is often limited by its own strategic interests and the need to maintain positive relationships with these countries. The decision to scale back the human rights report and soften its criticism of India and Pakistan reflects a broader trend in U.S. foreign policy under the Trump administration. The administration has often prioritized economic and security interests over human rights concerns, leading to a weakening of international norms and institutions designed to protect human rights. This approach has been criticized by human rights organizations and many members of the international community, who argue that it undermines the U.S.'s credibility as a defender of human rights and makes it more difficult to address human rights abuses around the world. The human rights situation in India and Pakistan is complex and multifaceted. There are no easy solutions to the challenges that these countries face. However, it is clear that a more robust and consistent approach to human rights is needed, both from the governments of India and Pakistan and from the international community. This includes strengthening legal frameworks to protect human rights, promoting accountability for human rights abuses, and supporting civil society organizations that are working to promote human rights. It also requires a commitment to addressing the root causes of discrimination and violence, such as poverty, inequality, and political marginalization. The U.S. government, as a major player in the region, has a particular responsibility to promote human rights in India and Pakistan. This requires not only speaking out against human rights abuses but also taking concrete actions to support human rights and encourage reforms. The softened language in this year's report raises concerns about the U.S.'s commitment to these principles, and it is essential that the administration reassess its approach and prioritize human rights in its relations with India and Pakistan.
Moving forward, the impact of the U.S. report should be viewed as a catalyst for change, rather than a concluding statement on the human rights situations in India and Pakistan. Civil society organizations, both within the respective countries and internationally, must capitalize on the report's findings to amplify their advocacy efforts and push for concrete improvements. This includes documenting and reporting on human rights abuses, raising awareness among the public and policymakers, and engaging in constructive dialogue with governments to promote reforms. The role of media is also crucial in shaping public opinion and holding those in power accountable. Investigative journalism and responsible reporting can shed light on human rights violations, expose systemic problems, and amplify the voices of victims and marginalized communities. Social media can also be a powerful tool for raising awareness and mobilizing action, but it is important to use it responsibly and to combat disinformation and hate speech. In addition to the efforts of civil society and media, international organizations, such as the United Nations and the European Union, have a vital role to play in promoting human rights in India and Pakistan. These organizations can provide technical assistance to governments, monitor human rights situations, and hold states accountable for their obligations under international law. They can also play a role in facilitating dialogue and promoting cooperation between different stakeholders, including governments, civil society organizations, and businesses. Businesses also have a responsibility to respect human rights in their operations and supply chains. This includes conducting due diligence to identify and address human rights risks, providing remedies for human rights abuses, and engaging with stakeholders to promote responsible business practices. Consumers can also play a role by supporting companies that respect human rights and by avoiding products and services that are linked to human rights abuses. Ultimately, the promotion of human rights in India and Pakistan requires a holistic and multi-faceted approach that involves all stakeholders. It requires a commitment to upholding the rule of law, promoting transparency and accountability, and protecting the rights of all individuals, regardless of their religion, ethnicity, or social status. It also requires a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue and to address the root causes of discrimination and violence. The U.S. government's report serves as a reminder that the struggle for human rights is an ongoing process. While the softened tone of this year's report is concerning, it should not discourage efforts to promote human rights in India and Pakistan. Instead, it should serve as a call to action for all those who believe in the inherent dignity and worth of every human being. By working together, we can create a world where human rights are respected and protected for all.
Source: U.S. report says India acts minimally, Pakistan rarely acts against rights abuses