Kim Aris, the son of Aung San Suu Kyi, has expressed profound disappointment over India's decision to host Myanmar's president, Min Aung Hlaing, who led the 2021 military coup that ousted his mother's government. Aris urged the world's largest democracy to prioritise human rights over diplomatic engagement.
Aris Calls for Concrete Action
Speaking to The Independent, Aris, 49, said he was 'very disappointed' that India rolled out the red carpet for Hlaing, a former junta chief who assumed the presidency after a widely condemned election. 'India should not be legitimising the junta in any way,' he stated. 'True stability in the region cannot be built on the suffering of the Burmese people or the validation of a lawless junta.'
Suu Kyi, 80, remains under house arrest after her sentence was reduced from 33 years to 18 years under amnesty schemes. She has been denied visits from family and lawyers for years, with the last direct communication via letter three years ago. Aris recently launched a 'proof of life' campaign to pressure Myanmar's government into providing evidence of her well-being.
International Criticism of India's Stance
The National Unity Government, formed by ousted lawmakers and anti-junta activists, conveyed 'serious concerns' to Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar about Hlaing's visit. In a statement, they warned that any engagement normalising the military leadership must be avoided 'out of respect for the clear will of the Myanmar populace.'
India's foreign ministry said Suu Kyi's detention was raised during Hlaing's meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, but provided no details. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri described the talks as 'freewheeling,' focusing on peace and inclusion.
Activists have criticised India for legitimising one of the world's most sanctioned leaders. Aris acknowledged that his mother's situation was discussed but stressed that 'what is now needed is action. The international community should move beyond expressions of concern and press for concrete action.'
As Suu Kyi approaches her 81st birthday on 19 June, Aris called for her release as the first step toward peace. 'The world's largest democracy should stand firmly on the side of human rights, accountability, and justice,' he said.
