Pakistan Urges India to End State-Sponsored Discrimination Against Muslims
Pakistan has voiced deep concern over what it describes as systematic targeting of Muslims in India, calling on New Delhi to take immediate steps to uphold the rights and safety of its Muslim population.
In a statement issued by the Foreign Office on Saturday, Pakistan condemned the rise in Islamophobia and religious intolerance, characterizing it as “state-sponsored discrimination.” The statement cited increasing instances of hate speech, exclusionary practices, and political rhetoric aimed at marginalizing Muslim communities in India.
“Pakistan is deeply concerned about the growing Islamophobia in India, where Muslims are being systematically targeted through hate speech and social exclusion,” said the Foreign Office spokesperson.
Call for International Attention and Domestic Accountability
The spokesperson stressed that promoting religious hatred for political purposes threatens India’s internal unity and constitutes a violation of international human rights commitments.
“Religious harmony and regional stability are being gravely undermined,” the official noted. “The international community must take cognizance of the deteriorating human rights situation in India.”
Pakistan urged the Indian government to honour its constitutional responsibility to protect all citizens, regardless of their faith, and warned that ongoing marginalization could lead to deeper societal divisions.
Emphasis on Reconciliation and Inclusivity
The Foreign Office emphasized the need for urgent dialogue, national inclusivity, and the promotion of tolerance in India.
“In the current circumstances, there is an urgent need for reconciliation, inclusivity, and the promotion of tolerance to prevent further alienation of Muslim communities in India,” the spokesperson added.
Continued Diplomatic Advocacy
Islamabad has consistently raised these issues on global platforms, particularly since the surge of Hindu nationalist influence in Indian politics. It reiterated that India must reject divisive narratives and instead champion democratic values that support peaceful coexistence.
“India must abandon divisive policies and uphold democratic values to foster peaceful coexistence in the region,” the Foreign Office concluded.
International rights organizations have also expressed concern about the narrowing space for religious freedom and the rise in anti-Muslim sentiment in India. Pakistan’s latest remarks are part of ongoing diplomatic efforts to highlight the treatment of minorities in the region.
