Joe Biden and Narendra Modi quizzed on human rights in India during US visit – video

When asked about the human rights and democratic issues in India, Joe Biden said he and Indian prime minister Narendra Modi had spoken about democratic values and were 'straightforward with each other.'

Modi said he was surprised by the critique, adding 'there is absolutely no space for discrimination.'

Thousands of Indian Americans and other guests had gathered on the White House South Lawn to greet Modi on Thursday morning, ahead of the private meeting between the two heads of state. At the same time, dozens of demonstrators descended near the White House gates in protest against the visit.

Human rights advocates have criticised Modi and his party, the BJP, for fueling the rise of violence associated with Hindu nationalism and discriminating against India's Muslim minority

• Biden rolls out red carpet for Modi amid calls to address human rights concerns