US Rights Body comments on Delhi violence 'factually inaccurate and misleading': MEA

In response to a  query regarding comments made on recent incidents of violence in Delhi, MEA Official Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said: "We have seen comments made by USCIRF, sections of the media and a few individuals regarding recent incidents of violence in Delhi. These are factually inaccurate and misleading, and appear to be aimed at politicising the issue."

He said the government is working hard to restore normalcy in the violence-hit areas.

"Our law enforcement agencies are working on the ground to prevent violence and ensure restoration of confidence and normalcy. Senior representatives of the Government have been involved in that process," Kumar informed.

He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself made public appeals to bring peace and calm.

"Prime Minister has publically appealed for peace and brotherhood. We would urge that irresponsible comments are not made at this sensitive time,“ said he.

This comes as USCIRF Chair Perkins said that: "ongoing violence we are witnessing in Delhi and the reported attacks against Muslims, their homes and shops, and their houses of worship are greatly disturbing. One of the essential duties of any responsible government is to provide protection and physical security for its citizens, regardless of faith."

USCIRF Commissioner Anurima Bhargava said the "brutal and unchecked violence" across Delhi cannot continue.

"The Indian government must take swift action to ensure the safety of its citizens," she said.

She also mentioned that the "Delhi Police have not intervened in violent attacks against Muslims, and the government is failing in its duty to protect its citizens."

Besides USCIRF, US Presidential candidate Bernie Sanders and a number of other American lawmakers have expressed grave concern over the violences in several parts of Delhi which claimed 38 lives so far.

However, US President Donald Trump did not wish to make any comment on the violence, which took place during his visit to India.

"I heard about the individual attacks but I did not discuss it. It is up to India," he said.

The unleash of violence in Delhi was preceded by a clash between the supporters and protestors of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), which aims to grant citizenship to Hindu, Sikh, Christian, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi but not Muslim refugees who came to India from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan due to religious persecution before 2015.