London: Amnesty International in its ‘Annual Report’ 2021-22 slammed India for “putting human rights defenders at heightened risk of surveillance” by Modi government agencies in IIOJK.
Indian authorities used repressive laws to silence critics by curbing freedom of expression both offline and online. Human rights defenders, including activists, journalists, students, lawyers and actors continued to face intimidation and harassment.
The names of many human rights defenders, including lawyers and academics, were added to the government’s Union War Book as “enemies of state” requiring “surveillance at all times”. The foreign contribution law was misused to crack down on human rights NGOs. India witnessed 38 government-mandated internet shutdowns during the year.
Residents of Jammu and Kashmir suffered the longest internet shutdown on record from 2019 – 2021. The region continued to suffer repeated internet shutdowns over so called concerns for national security and public order. From 2018-2020, 14 human rights activists continued to be detained under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) anti-terror legislation. Police and security forces used excessive force against members of minority communities and farmers protesting peacefully against laws on farming.
Courts undermined the right to a fair trial and delayed hearing on crucial cases involving violations of human rights. In the context of COVID-19, lack of transparency over the distribution of funds increased and the right to health was undermined.
Caste-based discrimination and violence against Dalits and Adivasis continued unabated. Vigilante cow protection groups attacked minority communities, adversely affecting their livelihoods. Dalits and Adivasis continued to face widespread abuses.
Dalit and Adivasi women faced sexual violence by men from upper cast. Enforced disappearances and torture and other ill-treatment were committed with impunity on a widespread and systematic basis. The Indian government failed to address the human rights and safety concerns of the people of Jammu and Kashmir also. International community must force India to abide by the laws and ensure safety and protection to the oppressed people in India. Web Desk
