Marco Rubio’s India Visit: US Lawmakers Push for Answers on Protest Crackdown

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is getting calls to express concern over alleged crackdowns on protest, surveillance related claims with India officials ahead of his visit to India. 

The issue could be a concern for human rights, civil liberties and freedom of expression in India during diplomatic discussions between Washington and New Delhi.

The appeal comes in the midst of the continued debate on the space that is available for public demonstration, the treatment of protesters and the surveillance technologies in India.

Those who are concerned want the US administration to ensure civil liberties are still part of the Indian government’s interaction.

India and the United States have a good relationship on defence, trade, technology and regional security. Both countries regard their partnership as vital to Indo-Pacific security. But democratic freedoms and human rights have occasionally caused differences between the two governments.

But those who would like Rubio to bring the issue up say strategic interests shouldn’t prevent Washington from talking about civil liberties. They want US officials to know more about the allegations of protest policing and the monitoring of people.

India has always stressed its democratic institutions, constitutional framework and legal processes. New Delhi has also been adamant that domestic matters should be understood in the context of the country’s legal and constitutional framework. What Indian officials say about the concerns of US lawmakers remains to be seen.

This is a diplomatic problem for Washington. The US would like to improve its relationship with India but also to be in line with democratic principles and human rights. India and security cooperation, economic growth and emerging technologies are just a few of the things that are still of interest for both.

The concerns surrounding protests focus on citizens' ability to assemble peacefully, express political opinions and criticise government policies. 

Rubio could also address those concerns and other bilateral priorities during the visit. Whether the allegations are part of formal talks or are handled privately will depend on the agenda and position of both governments.

The response from New Delhi and any Washington response will also shape further debate regarding civil liberties and the future outlook of India-US relations.