Parliamentarians for Global Action (PGA) expresses profound concern about reports of mass sectarian violence against civilians in New Delhi, India. Any form of attack against individuals based on their religion or belief entails violation of human rights and must be firmly and unequivocally condemned.
PGA calls upon the relevant prosecutorial and judicial authorities of India to investigate any individuals who may have abused their power by inciting or instigating mob violence against religious communities, or by failing to perform official duties and uphold the responsibility to prevent such attacks (e.g. alleged instances of inaction or negligence by law enforcement authorities).
PGA recalls with deep concern how those responsible for previous waves of violence in India have enjoyed impunity for their crimes against civilians. These failures to achieve justice for victims and accountability for perpetrators should serve as incentive not to repeat the mistakes of the past and to now affirm the principle of individual criminal responsibility. Victims must have access to justice and receive adequate reparations, including guarantees of non-repetition.
A prompt and thorough response by Indian authorities should also respect the principles of separation of powers and prosecutorial and judicial independence. This moment presents a test for the world’s largest democracy. PGA calls upon the all relevant organs in the branches of government of India to rise to the challenge in the wake of these tragic events.