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India, home to over 200 million Muslims, reinforced its pluralistic values at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). India's Permanent Representative P. Harish emphasized that India condemns religious discrimination and stands in solidarity with the UN in fighting Islamophobia and intolerance.
During the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, Harish stressed that religious intolerance is a global issue affecting all faiths, urging nations to work together to combat it.
Religious Fear: A Threat to Society
India has always promoted a way of life free from religious hatred and violence. The Indian envoy highlighted that religious fear and intolerance threaten global harmony and called for universal cooperation in addressing this challenge.
India’s Commitment to Protecting Religious Communities
India expressed concern over the rising incidents of violence targeting places of worship and religious communities worldwide. The representative urged UN member states to take concrete actions to prevent religious discrimination and uphold equal respect for all religions.
Additionally, India emphasized the need for educational reforms to curb religious extremism and fundamentalism, urging nations to ensure that their education systems promote tolerance.
UN Secretary-General’s Message on Religious Intolerance
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres highlighted that many Muslims worldwide experience discrimination, exclusion, and violence, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. He emphasized the need for global unity to combat Islamophobia and all forms of religious discrimination.
The UNGA adopted a resolution declaring March 15 as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, sponsored by 60 member countries of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). India supported the initiative but stressed that combating Islamophobia should be part of a broader fight against all religious discrimination.
