Washington, September 22: On a day when India's Union Home Minister Amit Shah once again pinned the blame on Jawaharlal Nehru for the archaic issue of Kashmir, the country's first Prime Minister was invoked at the "Howdy, Modi!" event by US Congressman Steny Hoyer. The public representative from Maryland said it is imperative to endorse Nehru's vision of pluralism and secularism while securing a future based on Mahatma Gandhi's teachings. Amit Shah Blames Ex-PM Jawaharlal Nehru for PoK's Existence.

"(India) like America proud of its traditions to secure a future according to Gandhi's teachings and Nehru's vision of India as a secular democracy where respect for pluralism and human rights safeguard every individual," Hoyer said at the mega-event in Houston, with PM Modi by his side. Catch Live Updates of 'Howdy, Modi!' Here.

See ANI's Tweet:

Hoyer's reference to protection of human rights assumes significance as a section of the American civil society, including a handful of US Senators, have raised concerns over the alleged excesses being committed by the Indian forces in Jammu & Kashmir.

Among those who have raised alarm over the alleged human rights violations in Kashmir includes Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders. The top candidate in the 2020 presidential race had called upon the Indian government to end the communication blockade in the Valley at the earliest.

Outside the venue of the mega-event in Houston, counter-rallies were organised by groups, including pro-Khalistani elements, against the alleged rights' violations in Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370. According to reports, nearly 15,000 demonstrators had gathered to participate in the protest.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 22, 2019 10:37 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).