In Manipur, India, a violent conflict erupted last year resulting in the deaths of at least 200 people. The United States has found significant evidence that minority groups were targeted during these riots. Additionally, both the Indian government and its supporters have been accused of applying pressure and harassing critics and dissenters, according to the U.S. State Department's annual Human Rights Report.

Reuters reported that the U.S. State Department has obtained substantial evidence of attacks on minorities and journalists in Manipur. Between May and November of last year, the riots displaced at least 60,000 people. The report also noted ongoing pressure and harassment against the media and critics throughout India. For instance, following the release of a documentary critical of the Modi government by the BBC in 2023, India's Income Tax Department conducted raids on the broadcaster's offices.

Reporters Without Borders published its press freedom index in 2023, placing India at an all-time low, ranking 161st out of 180 countries.

The U.S. report highlighted allegations by religious minorities in India that they have been targeted with false information and calls for violence. However, Prime Minister Modi has denied any persecution of minorities, asserting that his policies are designed to benefit all Indians.

Human rights groups have criticized the Modi administration for exacerbating the climate of hostility. They attribute to his tenure the spread of hateful rhetoric, the revocation of Kashmir’s special status, the implementation of the Citizenship Amendment Act, and the demolition of Muslim properties under the guise of removing illegal structures. Despite these controversies, election polls suggest Modi's party is poised to win a significant number of seats in this year’s elections, potentially securing a third term.