India faces UN rebuke over rights abuse of tribal peoples and Dalits
The UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) said India must address reports of violence and discrimination against vulnerable groups. It also called for stronger action against hate crimes targeting Bengali-speaking Muslims.
UN raises concerns over alleged abuses
“The committee was gravely concerned about reports of large-scale violations perpetrated by law enforcement officials against ethnic and ethno-religious groups, Indigenous and Tribal Peoples, including Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, particularly Dalits, and non-citizens,” it said in a statement on its findings.
“These included racially motivated violence, excessive use of force, extrajudicial killings, arbitrary and prolonged detention without due process, torture, ill-treatment and sexual violence.” The committee called on Indian authorities to investigate such allegations and ensure that those responsible face justice.
Concerns over profiling and detention
CERD said law enforcement operations targeting Rohingya, Bengali-speaking Muslims, migrants and asylum-seekers had increased. It said racial profiling during police checks had reportedly led to arbitrary arrests, detention and allegations of mistreatment.
The committee also raised concerns about deportations and forced returns involving people seeking international protection. It urged India to “urgently address discrimination, hate speech and hate crimes” against these groups and avoid collective expulsions.
India responds to UN review
The concerns come as caste continues to influence social status and access to education, resources and opportunities in India. CERD is made up of 18 independent rights experts and monitors how countries follow international rules against racial discrimination.
The committee reviewed India earlier this month for the first time since 2007. India’s delegation was led by Solicitor General Tushar Mehta.
India’s mission said its delegation “highlighted our pluralism, diversity, scale and complexity, constitutional and legal framework and safeguards… as we continue our journey towards ensuring equality, dignity and opportunity for all Indians”. CERD’s recommendations are not legally binding, but they can carry significant international and reputational weight.
The UN review has placed fresh attention on discrimination and the treatment of vulnerable communities in India. The committee has called for investigations, equal legal protection and stronger safeguards for groups facing alleged abuse.
India has defended its constitutional and legal protections while highlighting its diversity. The next focus will be on whether the concerns raised by the UN watchdog lead to stronger action by Indian authorities.
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