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There has been widespread backlash against India after a member of the ruling BJP made blasphemous comments against the Holy Prophet (PBUH). Several Arab states including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar issued condemnation while Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan have strongly reacted to the derogatory remarks.
The Islamophobia and hate speech perpetrated by the fascist Modi regime has been exposed in front of Muslim countries. The criticism has been severe as disrespecting the esteemed Prophet is a red line. Anger has poured out on social media and there have been calls for boycotting Indian goods. India has attempted to deflect the blame and suspended the officials who made the remarks.
The delayed response by Muslim countries including Pakistan is worrisome. The incident took place last week during an interview on Qatari TV. There was diplomatic outrage as Qatar and Kuwait lodged a protest and summoned the Indian envoy. But disappointingly, the government of Pakistan and ruling parties did not issue a prompt response until other countries issued their statements.
Pakistan has made great strides to highlight the issues of Islamophobia on the global stage. The UN had also issued a resolution and declared March 15 as International Day of Islamophobia. This was during former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s tenure when the government actively raised such matters and highlighted Indian atrocities. The present government needs to issue a swift response rather than tokenistic measures.
The incident is an eye-opener for the Muslim world over the communal violence and hate speech in India. Just months ago, there were calls for genocide and violence against Muslims but rights groups faced resistance when they pointed out. Pakistan highlighted the grave situation in Indian-occupied Kashmir on all forums but no heed was made. The world should realize the systematic marginalization and well-orchestrated campaign by Hindu zealots against Indian Muslims.
There is a need to further highlight the anti-Muslim sentiment in India and the rising attempts to deprive Muslims of their freedom of speech. The deep-seated Islamophobia in Indian society is spread by the Hindutva groups such as the BJP and the derogating comments against the Prophet (PBUH) have further exposed their bigotry and hatred.
Not just Muslim countries but the world should condemn the sacrilegious remarks. It is even more essential that the Indian officials should be held accountable. The government of India should be reminded that it has an obligation to protect minorities and stop human rights violations.
