India rebuked by UN discrimination watchdog

The United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) has criticized India for failing to protect tribal peoples and disadvantaged castes from extrajudicial killings, torture, and violence by law enforcement officials. The committee highlighted a surge in law enforcement operations targeting Rohingya, Bengali-speaking Muslims, migrants and asylum seekers in India.

These operations have reportedly led to arbitrary arrests, detentions without due process, torture and mistreatment. The committee expressed grave concern over reports of widespread violations against ethnic and ethno-religious groups, including Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, and non-citizens. They were subjected to racially motivated violence, excessive use of force, extrajudicial killings, arbitrary and prolonged detention, torture, ill-treatment, and sexual violence.

The committee urged India to promptly address these issues, investigate allegations, and bring perpetrators to justice. Caste continues to play a significant role in shaping social status in India, affecting access to resources, education, and opportunities. The committee's findings were based on India's review, which took place earlier this month, marking the first time since 2007.

India's delegation, led by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, emphasized the country's pluralism, diversity, constitutional framework, and safeguards for equality and opportunity during the review.