Indian-American lawmakers reiterated their commitment to raising human rights concerns in India but emphasized the importance of engaging in constructive dialogue rather than lecturing New Delhi. Congressman Ro Khanna highlighted the need to approach the conversation with sensitivity, considering India's history of colonialism. He emphasized the importance of discussing imperfections in both democracies and working together to advance human rights globally.
Congressman Dr. Ami Bera echoed Khanna's sentiments, emphasizing the significance of India maintaining its secular identity and expressing concerns about recent trends impacting democratic principles and freedom of the press. He drew a distinction between the US and India's democratic systems while underscoring the resilience of American democracy in the face of challenges.
Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal emphasized the importance of critiquing both domestic and international human rights issues, asserting that it is Congress's responsibility to uphold democratic values. She acknowledged the complexity of the US-India relationship, stressing the need to address concerns about religious freedom and press freedom while maintaining strong bilateral ties.
Shri Thanedar advocated for a strong US-India relationship, emphasizing India's strategic importance in countering China's influence. He called for India to commit to a robust friendship with the United States, highlighting the need for cooperation in addressing global challenges.
Overall, the lawmakers emphasized the importance of constructive engagement and dialogue in addressing human rights concerns while maintaining strong bilateral relations between the US and India.
