India has become world’s biggest Islamophobic state: Asim

Pakistan says India has earned distinction of being the world’s biggest Islamophobic state, which has turned against its own minorities including Muslims and Christians.

The remarks were made by Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the UN Asim Iftikhar Ahmad while speaking as chair of the OIC Core Group on Combating Islamophobia during the closing session of the high-level event commemorating the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.

Referring to the 17th OIC Report on Islamophobia, the ambassador said India accounts for the largest share of documented Islamophobic incidents globally.

He cited the recent restrictions on Friday prayers in Srinagar during the holy month of Ramadan, along with incidents of mob violence against Muslims and the demolition of historic mosques as examples of ongoing discrimination against Muslims.

Asim said dialogue, mutual understanding, tolerance, compassion, solidarity and international cooperation must continue to guide our collective efforts and global partnerships to effectively address this global menace.

The envoy said India was expected to join the forum in condemning Islamophobia and also briefing the participants about the steps it will take to alleviate the plight of millions of Muslims and other religious minorities suffering from the hate-filled extremist Hindutva ideology in its country.

“India, however, chose to deflect this question and tried to politicise today’s debate. This is a disservice to the victims of Islamophobia and undermines efforts being taken by responsible states of the world to combat this hate-spewing ideology,” he added.