Goa, Nov. 6 -- Two officials from an American advisory body on religious freedom have publicly claimed that Sikh gurdwaras in India were targeted in recent vigilante attacks, prompting renewed tension over international observations of religious rights. The statements come alongside long-standing pushback from New Delhi, which routinely rejects the commission's standing and impartiality.

USCIRF Commissioner David Anderson alleged in a social media statement that Sikh gurdwaras across India have recently faced vigilante actions, including attempts to harm religious leaders. Anderson advocated for the United States government to tie its security assistance to New Delhi based on how effectively Indian authorities address violence that hinde...