I'm also here today not only about a man who I hold in highest esteem. I am here today because Khurram’s most recent arrest is a prime example of the crackdown on civic space in India and across the globe, where regimes target journalists, lawyers and human rights defenders, who play the critical role of holding governments accountable. Kerry Kennedy President of Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights organization

I reiterate my call for his release, and all the other detained human rights defenders in India. He is a man as we all know, who has been a fearless advocate for human rights over so many years. In recent years, I have watched with dismay at the moves undertaken by the Indian authorities to criminalize the defense of human rights in the country. Mary Lawlor UN Special Rapporteur On Human Rights Defenders

My dad, Robert Kennedy said the sharpest criticism often goes hand in hand with the deepest idealism and love of country. No one personifies my father's words more clearly than Khurram Parvez. He must be released immediately. He should be recognized not as a criminal, but as the hero and patriot that he is. Kerry Kennedy President of Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights organization

The Biden administration needs to apply human rights standards consistently whether speaking to allies or adversaries. In this case, that means making public demands for Khurram Parvez's release, pushing the Indian Government to repeal the UAPA and making that push not only in the context of the US India relationship, but also in partnership with other like minded governments. Carolyn Nash Amnesty

The Biden administration needs to apply human rights standards consistently whether speaking to allies or adversaries. In this case, that means making public demands for Khurram Parvez's release, pushing the Indian Government to repeal the UAPA and making that push not only in the context of the US India relationship, but also in partnership with other like minded governments. Mary Lawlor UN Special Rapporteur On Human Rights Defenders