India Calls Out Pakistan's Islamophobia at UN: A Diplomatic Showdown

In a recent UN assembly, India spotlighted Pakistan's Islamophobia, particularly the persecution of the Ahmadiyya community. India's Permanent Representative raised critical questions about the treatment of religious minorities in Pakistan, prompting a response from Islamabad. This diplomatic exchange underscores the ongoing tensions between the two nations regarding religious intolerance. Harish emphasized India's commitment to secularism and equal respect for all religions, while also critiquing the UN's focus on Islamophobia without addressing broader issues of religious discrimination. The discussion highlights the complexities of religious identity in international politics and the need for a comprehensive approach to combat intolerance.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 17, 2026, 11:01 IST

India Highlights Pakistan's Religious Persecution

United Nations: India has brought to light Pakistan's own issues with Islamophobia, particularly the severe persecution faced by the Ahmadiyya community, a fact that was indirectly acknowledged by a representative from Islamabad.

During a recent General Assembly session, India's Permanent Representative P. Harish referred to Pakistan as 'our western neighbour' and posed a thought-provoking question regarding the brutal treatment of Ahmadiyyas, the forced repatriation of Afghan refugees, and military actions during Ramadan.

In response, Pakistan's Permanent Representative Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, while not explicitly denying the claims, accused India of politicizing the discussion on Islamophobia.

Although Harish did not mention Pakistan directly, his comments were pointed enough to imply the accusations, leaving little room for denial.

Ahmad's response seemed to acknowledge the ongoing persecution of Ahmadiyyas, a community that has faced systemic discrimination since a constitutional amendment in 1974 declared them 'non-Muslim'.

This amendment has led to state-sanctioned persecution, including frequent attacks on their places of worship and the threat of the death penalty under anti-blasphemy laws.

Harish further criticized Pakistan's narrative about India, suggesting it reflects a 'terrorist mentality' that has persisted since the country's formation.

He emphasized that India, as the birthplace of multiple religions, adheres to the principle of Sarva Dharma Sambhava, promoting equal respect for all faiths, which is foundational to the secular nature of the Indian Constitution.

India firmly denounces violence and hatred in the name of religion, regardless of the faith involved, and expressed skepticism about the UN's focus on Islamophobia when a broader declaration exists that condemns intolerance against all religions.

He referenced the 1981 Declaration on the Elimination of All Forms of Intolerance and Discrimination Based on Religion or Belief, advocating for a comprehensive approach to religious intolerance.

Harish cautioned against the dangers of politicizing religion, urging the UN to recognize the increasing trend of weaponizing religious identity for political gain, both by state and non-state actors.

He concluded by stating that Pakistan exemplifies the fabrication of narratives surrounding Islamophobia in the region.