Police officers stand guard at the main entrance gate of the Ministry of External Affairs in Islamabad. Photo: Archive
ISLAMABAD:
Pakistan on Tuesday drew international attention to rising Islamophobia and desecration of heritage sites in India, expressing deep concern over the hoisting of the flag 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 court proceedings in India, which acquitted those responsible and allowed the construction of a temple on the mosque’s demolished site, underscore what Pakistan calls a discriminatory approach by the Indian state toward minorities.
In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs 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 the majority Hindutva ideology.
“Many other historic mosques now face similar threats of desecration or demolition, while Indian Muslims continue to experience increasing social, economic and political marginalization,” the statement said.
“Pakistan calls on the international community to take cognizance of the growing Islamophobia, hate speeches and hate-motivated attacks in India,” the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson added.
“The United Nations and relevant international bodies must play a constructive role in safeguarding Islamic heritage and ensuring the protection of the religious and cultural rights of all minorities.”
The statement concluded with a call on the Indian government to shoulder its responsibilities by ensuring the safety of all religious communities, including Muslims, and protecting their places of worship in accordance with international human rights obligations.
