India Defends Minority Rights Amid Concerns During PM Modi's Visit to Netherlands
India pushes back on minority rights question during PM Modi's Netherlands trip: ‘Lack of understanding’

Image: Hindustan Times
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to The Hague, a senior Indian diplomat defended India's record on religious pluralism and press freedom in response to questions about minority rights. The diplomat highlighted India's historical embrace of various religions and noted the increasing population of minorities in the country.
- 01The Indian diplomat Sibi George emphasized that India's diversity includes the origins of major religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism.
- 02George stated that the minority population in India has increased from 11% at independence to over 20% today.
- 03He asserted that India maintains a robust press freedom, describing it as a 'noisy democracy' with widespread freedom of expression.
- 04The joint statement following Modi's talks with Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten did not address concerns about minority rights or press freedom.
- 05George invited the journalist to visit India to witness its vibrant democracy and economy firsthand.
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During a media briefing in The Hague, Netherlands, Indian diplomat Sibi George defended India's commitment to religious pluralism and press freedom in response to concerns raised by a Dutch journalist regarding minority rights. This exchange occurred after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's discussions with Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten, where they elevated bilateral relations to a strategic partnership and signed 17 agreements across various sectors, including defense and semiconductors. George addressed the journalist's inquiry about reported worries from the Netherlands and European Union, stating that such questions often arise from a 'lack of understanding.' He highlighted India's historical role as the birthplace of four major religions—Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism—and noted the thriving presence of other religions like Judaism, Christianity, and Islam in the country. Furthermore, he pointed out that the minority population in India has increased from 11% at the time of independence to over 20% today, challenging the notion that minority rights are under threat. George also defended India's press freedom, describing it as a hallmark of the country's democracy and inviting the journalist to visit India to experience its vibrant society.
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The defense of India's minority rights and press freedom during international engagements may influence perceptions and diplomatic relations with European nations.
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