Modi ducks human rights questions in presser with Biden

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a presser during his visit to the United States, defended his democratic record dismissing criticisms of India's democratic character and asserting that there is no room for discrimination based on caste, creed, religion, or gender.

However, concerns have been raised over India's controversial citizenship law, the revocation of special status in Kashmir, incidents of violence against minorities, inflammatory rhetoric from Modi's political party, police raids on media outlets, and the expulsion of opposition leaders from parliament.

Biden, cautious about human rights issues under Modi's leadership, highlighted the importance of religious pluralism and democratic values, noting that these principles face challenges worldwide. He emphasised that the success of both nations is of global significance, as their commitment to maintaining democracy makes them appealing partners.

The two leaders hailed their countries' partnership as a defining force that will shape the 21st century. Despite concerns over growing authoritarianism in India and the need for a counterweight to China, the two leaders emphasised the significance of their alliance.

Amid chants of his name by thousands of Indian-Americans on the White House's South Lawn, Modi, wearing a white kurta and sky-blue jacket, received a warm welcome as he walked the red carpet to a gun salute. Biden expressed his belief that the relationship between the US and India will be one of the most consequential of the century, asserting that the challenges and opportunities facing the world require both nations to work and lead together.

Modi stated that the visit infused a new direction and energy into the global strategic partnership between India and the United States. While addressing concerns about Ukraine, Modi expressed his willingness to facilitate peace but refrained from promising any break with Russia, which has historically been India's Cold War partner.

Despite these concerns, Biden accorded Modi full honours, including a gala dinner catered by a renowned Californian plant-based chef to accommodate the vegetarian prime minister. The leaders also reached significant agreements, such as technology transfers for fighter jet engines, India's purchase of MQ-9B SeaGuardians armed drones, and US chip giant Micron's investment in a semiconductor assembly plant in India. Additionally, India joined the Artemis Accords, signifying its commitment to a joint mission with NASA to the International Space Station.

The Biden-Modi summit showcased the deepening partnership between the US and India, focusing on defence cooperation, technology transfers, and space exploration, while acknowledging the importance of addressing human rights concerns and upholding democratic values.

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