UN Watchdog Urges India to Stop Hate Crimes Against Muslims

The United Nations discrimination watchdog has leveled sharp criticism at India. The Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination stated that New Delhi must act immediately to stop hate crimes targeting Bengali-speaking Muslims while strengthening safeguards for other vulnerable populations.

A separate warning targeted tribal peoples and disadvantaged castes facing violence from law enforcement. Extrajudicial killings, torture, and similar abuses are happening too often. The UN body says India needs better protections for these groups right now.

"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," the release read on Tuesday.

Specific acts included racially motivated violence, excessive force, arbitrary detention without due process, torture, ill-treatment, and sexual violence. The committee told India to investigate every claim and hold responsible officials accountable under the law.

Caste still dictates social standing in India. It controls access to resources, education, and opportunity. This system relies on historic hierarchies that separate Hindus by function and rank. CERD consists of 18 independent experts who monitor compliance with a global convention signed by 182 nations. That treaty entered force in 1969 and demands an end to racial discrimination, segregation, and inequality before the law.

India appeared for review earlier this month for the first time since 2007. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta led the delegation. The committee noted a rise in police operations targeting Rohingya refugees, Bengali-speaking Muslims, migrants, and asylum seekers. Reports say racial profiling during stops and identity checks leads to arbitrary arrest and torture.

The body also worried about deportations and forced returns of people needing international protection. It urged India to stop discrimination, hate speech, and collective expulsions while protecting the rights of these groups. CERD's opinions are not legally binding but carry heavy reputational weight in the eyes of the world community.

In response, India's mission released a statement during the review. The delegation highlighted pluralism, diversity, scale, complexity, constitutional framework, legal safeguards, and ongoing efforts to ensure equality, dignity, and opportunity for all Indians.