Human Rights Groups Host Controversial Modi Documentary Screening Ahead of White House Visit

| 13 June 2023

Washington, D.C. - Two prominent human rights organizations, Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, have extended invitations to policymakers, journalists, and analysts for a private screening of a BBC documentary in Washington. The film, titled "India: The Modi Question," critically examines Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership during the 2002 Gujarat riots. The screening, scheduled for June 20, aims to raise awareness about the documentary, which has been banned in India, ahead of Modi's upcoming state visit to the White House.

The Gujarat riots, which occurred in 2002, resulted in the death of at least 1,000 people, with the majority being Muslims, according to official figures. However, activists claim that the actual death toll was much higher. The documentary focuses on Modi's role as the chief minister of Gujarat at the time and questions his handling of the situation.

Modi has consistently denied allegations that he failed to take sufficient action to quell the violence. A Supreme Court-ordered investigation found no evidence to support prosecuting the Indian Prime Minister. Nevertheless, the documentary presents a different perspective, reopening debates surrounding his leadership during the Gujarat riots.

The Indian government reacted strongly to the release of the documentary in January, describing it as a "propaganda piece." Social media platforms were instructed to block the sharing of any clips from the film. In response, Human Rights Watch has chosen to highlight the ban by hosting the private screening in the United States.

The White House, amidst growing concerns about human rights issues in India, has defended Modi's state visit. President Joe Biden's press secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, emphasized the importance of the relationship between the United States and India, stating that human rights concerns should not undermine their ongoing partnership.

Critics argue that India's human rights situation has worsened in recent years under the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), led by Prime Minister Modi. Minority rights, dissenting voices, and press freedom have been particularly affected, according to advocacy groups. The government, however, strongly denies these allegations, asserting that it is committed to the welfare of all sections of society.

The Indian government's response to the BBC documentary also included tax officials inspecting the broadcaster's offices in New Delhi and Mumbai in February. Additionally, the financial crime agency initiated an investigation in April, citing alleged violations of foreign exchange rules. Government officials claimed that these actions were not motivated by vindictiveness.

The BBC has maintained its stance on the documentary, defending its reporting and refuting any claims of bias or an ulterior motive. The film has not been aired in India, and the organization has reiterated its commitment to impartial journalism.

As the screening approaches, human rights activists hope to shed light on the situation in India and draw attention to concerns about the treatment of minorities, dissidents, and journalists. The event serves as a platform for open dialogue and critical analysis, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by Indian society and its impact on international relations.

The upcoming state visit of Prime Minister Modi to the White House raises questions about the balance between diplomacy and human rights. As the documentary screening sparks conversations, policymakers, journalists, and analysts face the challenge of reconciling these competing interests in a rapidly evolving global landscape.