Washington: The US has urged India to “protect and respect” the right to peaceful assembly of people and hold accountable those perpetrating violence following the Delhi’s communal riots over the amended citizenship act, saying that Washington has raised the issue at the highest level with New Delhi.
The comments came as Delhi this week witnessed worst riots in more than three decades, killing 42 people and injuring 200 others. The communal riots began in northeast Delhi over the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and spiralled into bloodshed.
The Indian Parliament passed CAA last year, resulting in a series of protests across the country.
“We strongly condemn the recent violence and urge authorities to protect and respect the right of peaceful assembly and hold accountable those perpetrating violence. We call on all parties to maintain peace and refrain from violence,” a State Department spokesperson told PTI.
“We have raised these issues at the highest levels and continue to engage the Government of India on issues related to religious freedom, the official said responding to a question.
“Underlining that respect for religious freedom and equal treatment under the law are fundamental principles of the two democracies, the official said, we note Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for peace and the Indian government’s pledge to prevent further violence and restore normalcy.” PTI

Press Trust of India