Hearing in Human rights in South Asia has begun: @PramilaJayapal is attending tho not a member. As are two other members. Focus thus far on Kashmir and Assam.
So the attack begins. @IlhanMN calls Modi govt as a Hindu majoritarian project! Her questions appear motivated. Calling for self determination for Kashmiri people. (Who briefed her. One guess)
That @IlhanMN is playing to the gallery is obvious. People clapping.
@jayapal raises question of detentions. And expresses deep concern about children being detained. Also says Indian democracy is alive and well. High courts are taking GOI to task.
Amb Alice Wells reminds eager House members of valuable context: Pakistan’s role in fomenting terrorism in India. In Kashmir. Shutting them down will increase prospects for talks. @State_SCA
Brilliant put down by Amb. Alice Wells of Congressman Brown who was overbearing in asking about how US was leveraging its power to change Indian policy. Wells said: The relationship with India is not a relationship of dictation. It’s a partnership.
Alice Wells says she advocated for Senator Van Hollen to travel to Kashmir. GOI said this is not the right time. Also explains the security dimension. She says it’s a complex situation. But uncomfortable with the trade off
Alice Wells shines. Confident of her material and won’t be intimidated by a loud man just because he is a member of Congress. @State_SCA
Alice Wells: We were not notified or consulted (on revocation of Article 370) #Kashmir
Alice Wells: we don’t take a position on revocation of Article 370 but we are taking a position on how Kashmiris live their lives. Points out that opposition parties supported revocation of Article 370.
@JacksonLeeTX18 unsurprisingly gives Pak military POV and whitewashes Pak role in terrorism. She is chair of the Pak Caucus so it’s expected. #HumanRightsHearing @HouseForeign
Alice Wells: Troop numbers cited are misleading (800,000 cited by Congressman Costa) because most are deployed along the border where constant skirmishes have gone one since the ceasefire broke down.
.@PramilaJayapal talks about her recent visit to India and how there was a great sense of fear among minorities and even Hindus. Says she asked @narendramodi to speak out against growing intolerance but is disappointed that he hasn’t. @HouseForeign
