Shaina NC Defends Indias Religious Freedom Against US Commission Criticism

Jodhpur, November 15 (Daily Kiran) : Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC has voiced strong criticism of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) regarding its remarks on Sharjeel Imam. Speaking in Jodhpur, she emphasized that India has its own constitution, laws, and judiciary. She firmly rejected any foreign interference in matters of religious freedom.

Commenting on USCIRF’s social media post, Shaina stated, “This is our court, our constitution, and our law. No outsider will dictate our religious freedoms.” She highlighted India’s unique characteristic of “unity in diversity,” noting that the nation celebrates various festivals, including Ganesh Chaturthi, Eid, Guru Nanak Jayanti, and Christmas.

She urged the U.S. to reflect on its own situation regarding religious freedom and constitutional rights. Addressing claims about Imam’s advocacy for religious issues, she pointed out that India is home to 200 million Muslims, who are not imprisoned. “Stop spreading rumors; we will continue our work,” she asserted.

Regarding Raj Thackeray of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, Shaina reiterated that their leader, Eknath Shinde, believes in “unity in diversity.” She lamented that those who engage in appeasement politics make such statements merely to please their vote banks. “For centuries, people of all religions have coexisted and celebrated festivals together in India, and that remains our stance.”

Previously, India’s Ambassador to the U.S., Vinay Mohan Kwatra, had also opposed USCIRF’s comments on Imam, with R.P. Singh stating that no foreign entity should interfere in India’s internal matters. He affirmed that the case is pending in court, and the judiciary will deliver a verdict that should be respected, with no acceptance of external agency involvement.