India remains the world's largest democracy with a strong rule of law but some of the Indian government's actions are inconsistent with the country's democratic values, a top US official has told lawmakers.
Acting Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Dean Thompson expressed concerns over restrictions on freedom of expression during a Congressional hearing.
"This includes the detention of human rights activists and journalists," he said.
Thompson said the US regularly engages in and on these issues, including the important work of civil society.
India has previously rejected criticism by foreign governments and human rights groups on allegations that civil liberties have eroded in the country.