Several progressive House Democrats chose to boycott Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address to a joint session of Congress on Thursday, citing concerns over India's human rights record. Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ilhan Omar, Rashida Tlaib, Jamaal Bowman, and Cori Bush were among those who declined to attend the speech, viewing the invitation as an inappropriate honor given the alleged abuses.

These representatives criticized Modi's administration for its treatment of religious minorities, particularly Muslims, and its suppression of journalistic freedom. Rep. Ocasio-Cortez argued that such a prestigious platform should not be offered to individuals with questionable human rights records. Rep. Tlaib called Modi's presence "shameful," citing his "long history of human rights abuses." Rep. Omar echoed these sentiments, highlighting the repression of religious minorities and targeting of journalists and human rights advocates. Rep. Bowman deemed Modi's appearance "unacceptable," pointing to his "dangerous nationalism and violence." Rep. Bush expressed solidarity with communities affected by Modi's policies.

The boycott comes amidst Modi's state visit, which included meetings with President Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, as well as a White House state dinner. Despite the controversy, the Biden administration is under pressure to strengthen its relationship with India, recognizing the country's significant geopolitical role in the context of rising global tensions involving the U.S., Russia, and China.

Following the address, Modi and Biden held a limited press availability, a rare event for the Indian Prime Minister. They each took only one question from a U.S. journalist and one from an Indian journalist.