The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday criticised the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) over its latest remarks targeting the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), describing the commission as “biased” and lacking credibility.
India Responds to USCIRF Criticism
During a recent media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed the ongoing criticism from the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF). Jaiswal characterized the commission as a biased entity that has consistently issued statements about India that the Indian government deems incorrect and provocative.
He emphasized, “We all know this is a biased institution. For years, it has made incorrect and provocative statements about India. We should ignore such institutions, as they have their own agendas and lack credibility.” This statement underscores India’s position on the USCIRF’s remarks and reflects a broader diplomatic stance on international scrutiny regarding its internal affairs.
The MEA’s response came after USCIRF officials called for sanctions against the RSS and urged the US government not to extend high-level diplomatic courtesies or hold meetings with its leaders. “Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s (RSS) Sarsanghachalak (Chief) Dr Mohan Bhagwat will be visiting the USA, Canada and the UK from 25th Aug 2026 on the invitation from overseas local associations and organisations.
This coincides with the occasion of the ongoing Centenary year of RSS,” the post said. Earlier reporting noted: The External Affairs Ministry spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, said that the US body has been making “disparaging and inflammatory remarks” about India. I would say that we should keep away from such organisations as they have their own agenda and lack any credibility…We do not expect that the USCIRF will engage with the reality of India’s pluralistic framework or acknowledge the harmonious coexistence of its diverse communities,” Jaiswal said.
Earlier reporting noted: “It is a biased organisation.
In a statement issued on March 16, Jaiswal had also criticised what he called USCIRF’s “selective criticism” of India.
