India, Nov. 15 -- The VanDyke controversy could be recast internationally as a story about India persecuting an American activist involved in Ukraine and Myanmar.

The controversy surrounding American activist Matthew VanDyke could move beyond India's legal and security institutions into the international arena, where allegations of persecution may become a powerful instrument of public pressure. The controversy surrounding American activist Matthew VanDyke may not end with his release due default bail from Indian custody. In fact, the more consequential phase could be only beginning. There is a distinct possibility that VanDyke will seek to transform his experience with Indian authorities into an international narrative of victimhood, po...