International
oi-Madhuri Adnal
Former US President Barack Obama, in an exclusive interview with CNN’s Chief International Anchor Christiane Amanpour, expressed his concerns that India could experience internal divisions if the government fails to safeguard the rights of its ethnic minorities.
These comments from Obama coincided with Prime Minister Modi’s inaugural State visit to the United States. On Thursday, Modi held a meeting with US President Joe Biden at the White House.
While Obama acknowledged his collaboration with Modi on climate change and other areas, he emphasized that discussions on Indian democracy should also incorporate concerns about its treatment of ethnic minorities.
The former US President stated that if an American leader were to meet with Modi, it would be important to address the “protection of the Muslim minority in a majority-Hindu India.”
PM Modi Talks of ‘Bold’ Steps; Biden Lauds ‘One of the Most Defining Relationships’ in 21st century
Obama added, “If I had a conversation with Mr. Modi – who I know well – part of my argument would be that if you do not protect the rights of ethnic minorities in India, then there is a strong possibility India, at some point, starts pulling apart. And we have seen what happens when you start getting those kinds of large internal conflicts. That would be contrary to the interests of India.”
He further mentioned that as the President of the United States, he dealt with figures who were allies but didn’t necessarily govern in a manner aligned with ideal democratic principles.
Reacting to Obama’s interview, Congress spokesperson and social media head Supriya Shrinate took to Twitter, sarcastically stating, “There’s a message Mr. Modi’s friend ‘Barack’ has for him. Guess he’s also a part of an international conspiracy against Mr. Modi? At least that’s what the bhakts would allege!”
Watch this video from 2.36 mins – There’s a message Mr Modi’s friend ‘Barack’ has for him.
Guess he’s also a part of an international conspiracy against Mr Modi? At least that’s what the bhakts would allege!
— Supriya Shrinate (@SupriyaShrinate) June 22, 2023
While Biden hosted PM Modi, some human rights advocates and US lawmakers questioned the decision to bestow such an honor on the Indian Prime Minister, citing allegations of human rights violations.
During their Oval Office meeting, Biden subtly alluded to human rights in India, emphasizing the desire for a partnership grounded in “democracy, human rights, freedom, and the rule of law,” as reported by the Associated Press. However, White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan stated that Biden would express concerns without lecturing the Indian Prime Minister.
Additionally, Representatives Ilhan Omar, Rashida Tlaib, and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who are the only two Muslim women members of the US Congress, announced their decision to boycott Modi’s address to Congress. They cited allegations of mistreatment against dissidents and minorities, particularly Muslims, in India.
Story first published: Thursday, June 22, 2023, 23:23 [IST]
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