A group of Indian Americans staged a protest outside the White House on Tuesday, denouncing Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States and his government’s policies that they say have led to lynching and human rights violations in India.
The protesters, who were joined by activists from various civil rights and religious groups, held banners and placards that read “Modi Not Welcome”, “Stop Hindu Fascism”, “Stop Lynching Muslims” and “Save India’s Democracy”. They also chanted slogans against Modi and his ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which they accused of promoting Hindu supremacy and marginalizing minorities, especially Muslims.
The protesters said they wanted to draw attention to the rising incidents of mob violence and lynching in India, mostly targeting Muslims, Dalits, and Christians, who are accused of cow slaughter, eating beef or converting to other religions. They also highlighted the crackdown on dissent, media freedom, and civil society in India under Modi’s rule.
The protest coincided with Modi’s meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden at the White House on climate change, trade, and security.
The protesters said they were disappointed that Biden did not raise human rights concerns with Modi during their meeting. They urged the U.S. administration to hold Modi accountable for his actions and to pressure him to respect the rights and dignity of all Indians. They also called for solidarity among all oppressed communities in India and the United States.