WASHINGTON, DC (Diya TV) – U.S. rights groups plan protests against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Washington, concerned about India’s human rights record. However, experts do not expect public criticism from the U.S. The Indian American Muslim Council, Peace Action and Veterans for Peace are among the groups that will gather near the White House on June 22. Washington seeks closer ties with India as a counterweight to China, but human rights advocates fear that geopolitical interests will overshadow human rights concerns. The U.S. has expressed concerns about India’s treatment of religious minorities, dissidents, and journalists. Critics highlight issues like the Gujarat riots and restrictive policies under Modi’s government.
Khalistani extremist Avtar Singh Khanda, chief of the UK-based Khalistan Liberation Force, has died in London. The cause of death is disputed, with reports citing cancer while his supporters claim poisoning. Khanda was involved in anti-India activities, including pulling down the Indian flag during a demonstration. He radicalized and trained youth in extremist ideology. Despite being on India’s list of conspirators, he lived in the UK under political asylum. Khanda played a role in appointing Amritpal Singh as the chief of Waris Punjab De.
Nusrat Choudhury made history as the first Muslim female judge and the first judge of Bangladeshi descent in the US. A Former legal director of the ACLU of Illinois, Choudhury was confirmed as a US District Court Judge for the Eastern District of New York. SABA North America congratulated her on this achievement, calling her an inspiration to South Asian and Muslim attorneys.
Ravi Kapur contributed to this report.
