Police officers stand guard outside the main gate of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Islamabad. Photo: File
ISLAMABAD:
Pakistan on Tuesday drew international attention to rising Islamophobia and desecration of heritage sites in India, expressing deep concern over the raising 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 legal proceedings in India, which acquitted those responsible and allowed the construction of a temple on the demolished mosque site, highlight what Pakistan says is the Indian state’s discriminatory approach towards minorities.
In a statement, the Foreign Ministry 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 ideology of Hindutva.
“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 rise in Islamophobia, hate speech and hate-motivated attacks in India,” the foreign ministry spokesperson added.
“The United Nations and relevant international bodies must play a constructive role in safeguarding Islamic heritage and ensuring the protection of religious and cultural rights of all minorities.”
The statement concludes with a call on the Indian government to fulfill its responsibilities in ensuring the safety of all religious communities, including Muslims, and protecting their places of worship in line with international human rights obligations.
