FO shines spotlight on rising Islamophobia in India

Expresses concern over flag hoisting at so-called 'Ram Temple' in Ayodhya

ISLAMABAD:

Pakistan on Tuesday drew international attention to rising Islamophobia and the desecration of heritage sites in India, expressing deep concern over the flag hoisting at the so-called "Ram Temple" built on the site of the historic Babri Mosque in Ayodhya.

The Babri Mosque, a centuries-old place of worship, was demolished on December 6, 1992, by extremist mobs inspired by fascist ideologies. Subsequent judicial proceedings in India, which acquitted those responsible and permitted construction of a temple on the mosque's demolished site, underscore what Pakistan terms a discriminatory approach by the Indian state toward minorities.

In a statement, the Foreign Office said the latest move reflected a broader pattern of pressure on religious minorities in India and deliberate attempts to erode Muslim cultural and religious heritage under the influence of majoritarian Hindutva ideology.

"Numerous other historic mosques now face similar threats of desecration or demolition, while Indian Muslims continue to experience growing social, economic, and political marginalisation," the statement said.

"Pakistan calls on the international community to take cognisance of the rising Islamophobia, hate speech, and hate-motivated attacks in India," added the Foreign Office spokesperson.

"The United Nations and relevant international bodies must play a constructive role in safeguarding Islamic heritage and ensuring protection of the religious and cultural rights of all minorities."

The statement concluded with a call for the Indian government to uphold its responsibilities by ensuring the security of all religious communities, including Muslims, and protecting their places of worship in accordance with international human rights obligations.