US Panel Pushes Trump to Sanction RSS and RAW Over Religious Freedom Concerns

The United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has recommended that the administration of Donald Trump consider imposing sanctions on India’s Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the country’s external intelligence agency Research and Analysis Wing (RAW).

The recommendation was made in the commission’s 2026 Annual Report, which monitors the state of religious freedom across the world. While the advisory is not binding on the White House, it signals growing concerns in Washington over alleged religious freedom issues in India.

India Listed Among ‘Countries of Particular Concern’

In the report, USCIRF placed India among 18 nations designated as “Countries of Particular Concern” (CPC) due to what it described as ongoing violations of religious freedom.

Other countries listed in the category include China, Iran, Pakistan and Russia. The commission has repeatedly raised concerns about religious liberty in India in its reports over the past several years.

Sanctions Proposed Against RSS and RAW

The commission specifically recommended targeted sanctions against the RSS, a Hindu nationalist organisation founded in 1925, and India’s external intelligence agency RAW.

Suggested measures include freezing assets of RSS members in the United States and imposing travel bans. The report also proposed reviewing or suspending certain arms sales and future defence or trade agreements until improvements in religious freedom are observed.

Previous Allegations Against RAW Mentioned

The report also referred to previous concerns raised by USCIRF regarding alleged overseas activities of RAW. Last year, the commission had cited allegations involving plots against Sikh separatists abroad, which had similarly prompted calls for sanctions.

However, the Indian government has consistently rejected such allegations and has defended its institutions.

Potential Impact on India–US Relations

Analysts warn that the recommendations could create friction in relations between India and the United States, especially at a time when both nations are strengthening strategic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region amid concerns about China’s growing influence.

Although the USCIRF’s recommendations are advisory and not mandatory, they often influence debates in Washington regarding foreign policy and human rights.

Awaiting Washington’s Response

For now, the report serves as a strong policy recommendation rather than an official decision. Observers are closely watching how the US administration will respond to the advisory and whether it will affect defence cooperation, trade discussions, or diplomatic engagement between the two countries.