Religious Pluralism Core Principle For India And US, Biden Tells PM Modi

Biden's remarks come after American leaders urged him to raise concerns over the alleged oppression of minorities in India with PM Narendra Modi.

New Delhi: President Joe Biden called religious freedom a "core principle" for India and the United States as he welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the White House on Thursday, news agency AFP reported. “Equity under the law, freedom of expression, religious pluralism and diversity of our people -- these core principles have endured and evolve. Even as they have faced challenges throughout each of our nations' histories, and will fuel our strength, depth and future,” AFP quoted President Biden as saying.

His remarks come after American leaders, including Democratic party's Bernie Sanders, Cori Bush, and Ilhan Omar urged President Biden to raise concerns over the alleged oppression of minorities in India with PM Modi.

PM Modi received a rousing welcome at the White House as he arrived there for the bilateral meeting. Both the leaders stressed the relationship between India and the US as one of the most defining relationships of the 21^st century.

“Both of our countries take pride in their diversity. Both of us believe in the fundamental principle of 'in the interest of all,' 'for the welfare of all,” PM Modi said.

“The two countries are committed to work together for the global good and for global peace, stability and prosperity. Our strong strategic partnership is a clear proof of the power of democracy,” he added.

Notably, President Biden has been facing pressure from members of his own party, who are calling on him to express concerns about press freedom and the human rights situation in India under the Modi government and to directly address these issues in his bilateral talks.  

Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders accused the Modi government of pushing "aggressive Hindu nationalism". In a tweet, Sanders expressed his concerns, saying, "Prime Minister Modi's government has cracked down on the press and civil society, jailed political opponents, and promoted an aggressive Hindu nationalism that leaves little room for India's religious minorities. President Biden should raise these issues in his meeting with Prime Minister Modi."