Amnesty: Modi Unworthy of Indonesia's Highest Honor

Amnesty International Indonesia has sharply criticized President Prabowo Subianto's decision to bestow the nation's highest honor, the Bintang Republik Indonesia Adipurna, upon Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The award was presented on Tuesday, July 7, 2026. The organization deems the move "criticizable and an excessive step by the Indonesian government."

Wirya Adiwena, Deputy Director of Amnesty International Indonesia, stated that state honors must adhere to principles including humanity. However, he argued that Modi's track record, particularly concerning human rights, conflicts with this principle. Amnesty International's 2025/2026 report highlights a significant decline in human rights under Modi's administration, noting the "systematic criminalization of freedom of expression and peaceful assembly." The organization found that laws on sedition and anti-terrorism have been used to target journalists, activists, comedians, academics, and students.

Furthermore, Amnesty International reported an increase in persecution of religious and ethnic minorities, including Muslims, under Modi's leadership, citing discriminatory marriage laws. The group also alleges that state institutions have been mobilized to silence independent critical voices, with international media organizations and civil society groups facing scrutiny. These actions, according to Amnesty, indicate a shrinking space for freedom and rising intolerance in India.

Adiwena also questioned Modi's international stance, referencing a February statement where Modi emphasized strengthening ties with Israel without mentioning the ongoing situation in Gaza or alleged "ethnic cleansing" in the West Bank. Amnesty International stressed that human rights concerns cannot be disregarded when bestowing state honors, labeling the award to a leader with a poor human rights record as a "wrong step."