Bill > HRes561

This resolution honors the life and legacy of Father Stan Lourduswamy, a Jesuit priest and human rights activist who dedicated his life to advocating for marginalized communities in India, particularly the Adivasi (indigenous) people. The resolution details Father Stan's extensive work in protecting the rights of indigenous communities, including his efforts to ensure implementation of constitutional provisions like the PESA Act and Forest Rights Act, and his formation of the Persecuted Prisoners Solidarity Committee to expose illegal imprisonments. It highlights the controversial circumstances of his arrest in 2020 by India's National Investigation Agency, his subsequent incarceration, and his death in custody in July 2021, noting forensic evidence suggesting that the charges against him were based on fabricated digital evidence. The resolution calls on India to conduct an independent investigation into his arrest, incarceration, and death, condemns the misuse of anti-terror laws to target human rights defenders, and emphasizes the importance of freedom of expression as a fundamental human right. Additionally, it urges the Indian government and other governments worldwide to respect and protect human rights activists and support marginalized communities.

Military Affairs and Security

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-resolution/561/all-info