United Nations, Mar 17 – India strongly criticised Pakistan at the United Nations General Assembly, accusing it of spreading “fabricated” narratives on Islamophobia while ignoring its own record on religious intolerance and regional actions.
India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Parvathaneni Harish, questioned Pakistan’s credibility, pointing to the alleged repression of the Ahmadiyya community, deportation of Afghan refugees, and reported airstrikes during the holy month of Ramadan.
Speaking at the commemoration of the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, Harish said such actions raise serious concerns about Islamabad’s claims on protecting minority rights. He also criticised the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, accusing it of being used to make “baseless” allegations against India.
Highlighting India’s diversity, Harish noted that the country is home to over 200 million Muslims who actively participate in democratic processes, including in Jammu and Kashmir. He stressed that India’s ethos is rooted in coexistence and pluralism, rejecting claims that contradict this reality.
The envoy cautioned against the politicisation of religion in global discourse, warning that selective narratives risk deepening divisions rather than addressing genuine concerns. He urged the UN to adopt a broader approach to tackling religious discrimination in all its forms, rather than focusing on a single faith.
India reaffirmed its commitment to promoting harmony and condemned violence carried out in the name of religion. Emphasising its civilisational philosophy of “Sarva Dharma Sambhava” equal respect for all religions Harish said this principle underpins the country’s constitutional values.
Calling on the United Nations to remain impartial and inclusive, India urged the global body to focus on peacebuilding, humanitarian efforts, and universal human rights without bias. The country reiterated its support for building societies based on equality, dignity, and the rule of law for people of all faiths.