UN committee flags alleged profiling, arrests and mistreatment of Bengali-speaking Muslims

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

The United Nations has raised concerns over the treatment of Muslims in India, especially Bengali-speaking Muslims, Rohingya refugees, migrants and asylum seekers.

The UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) raised the concerns in a report issued on August 25 after its first review of India in nearly two decades. India last appeared before the committee in 2007, while Solicitor General Tushar Mehta led its delegation during the latest review.

The committee said it was concerned about reports of police operations targeting Bengali-speaking Muslims and other groups. It said police stops and identity checks involving racial profiling had reportedly led to arbitrary arrests and detention without due process.

It also raised reports of torture and other mistreatment during such operations.

The concerns come as some Indian states carry out drives to identify suspected undocumented immigrants. Rights groups have accused authorities of targeting Bengali-speaking Muslims in these exercises, with some Indian citizens also reportedly affected.

CERD urged India to take urgent action against discrimination, hate speech and hate crimes targeting Bengali-speaking Muslims, Rohingya refugees, migrants and asylum seekers.

The committee also raised concerns about the deportation and forced return of people who may need international protection. It called on India to avoid collective expulsions and respect the principle of non-refoulement, which means that refugees and asylum seekers should not be returned to places where they could face serious danger.

CERD called on Indian authorities to investigate allegations of abuse by law enforcement officials and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.

The report has added to international concern over the treatment of Muslims and other vulnerable groups in India, particularly over alleged racial profiling, anti-Muslim hate speech, police actions and the treatment of refugees and migrants.

Source: Muslim Network