The US Department of State Monday released its annual report on human rights, addressing what it considers significant issues with and abuses of human rights in India. Included in these issues and abuses are unlawful and arbitrary killings, torture and degrading treatment by police and prison officials, harsh and severe prison conditions, restrictions on freedom of expression and media, unjustified arrests or prosecution of journalists, and restrictions on internet freedom.

The report categorizes the violations into seven sections, ranging from respect for the integrity of people to worker rights. According to the Department of State, these issues and abuses–among others–constitute an arbitrary depravation of life to those in India and seriously inhibit their civil liberties, which are protected by the country’s constitution. The issues and abuses highlighted by the report also inhibit the ability of people to participate to the fullest extent of their rights in Indian political processes.

The report also stated that there were numerous reports of government corruption throughout 2022.  The Department of State found corruption present at multiple levels of government. However, the report noted that the uncovered corruption was not criminalized in India, and therefore not illegal behavior.