New Delhi, March 17: India has brought attention to the severe persecution of Ahmadis in Pakistan, shedding light on the country’s Islamophobia. A representative from Islamabad has nearly acknowledged that their nation is indeed oppressing Ahmadis.
Without directly naming Pakistan, India’s Permanent Representative P. Harish referred to it as “our western neighbor” during a statement made on Monday. He emphasized, “It is essential to consider the atrocities faced by the Ahmadi community, the mass return (or forced exile) of helpless Afghans, and the bombings conducted during the holy month of Ramadan.”
On the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, India did not explicitly mention Pakistan in the General Assembly but hinted at it, making it clear that Islamabad should recognize the implications of the statement.
Although Pakistan’s name was not directly mentioned, its Permanent Representative, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, did not refute the allegations in his response. Instead, he claimed that India was politicizing the General Assembly meeting on Islamophobia.
The Pakistani representative seemed to almost concede to the ongoing oppression of Ahmadis. In 1974, an amendment to Pakistan’s constitution adopted a policy of Islamic extremism, declaring Ahmadis as “non-Muslims” and institutionalizing their persecution. They face frequent attacks on their religious mosques and could be sentenced to death under blasphemy laws.
Without naming Pakistan, Harish clearly stated that India’s portrayal is merely a reflection of Islamabad’s “terrorist mindset, which has been maintained since the country’s inception.”
He asserted, “This is the real issue. India, being the birthplace of multiple religions (Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism), upholds the principle of religious equality, advocating for equal respect for all faiths and inspiring the secular values of the Indian Constitution.”
He condemned violence and hatred in the name of religion, regardless of the faith involved. Harish questioned whether it is appropriate for the United Nations to emphasize Islamophobia when there is already a declaration condemning hatred against all religions.
He referenced the 1981 declaration aimed at eliminating all forms of intolerance and discrimination based on religion or belief.
Harish emphasized, “It is crucial for the UN to focus on the growing threats of weaponizing religious identity for small political gains. India’s western neighbor exemplifies the fabrication of stories surrounding Islamophobia in the region.”
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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