India’s decision to abstain from voting on a United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) resolution introduced by Pakistan and co-sponsored by China on Islamophobia has sparked discussions on the broader issue of religious discrimination and violence. With 115 nations voting in favor of the resolution titled “Measures to combat Islamophobia,” India, along with several other countries including France, Brazil, Germany, the United Kingdom, Ukraine, and Italy, chose to abstain.
In explaining India’s stance, Ambassador Ruchira Kamboj, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN, emphasized the need to address religiophobia comprehensively, encompassing not only Islamophobia but also discrimination against Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, and other faiths. Kamboj underscored that followers of non-Abrahamic religions have also been victims of religious discrimination, highlighting the emergence of contemporary forms of religiophobia targeting Hindus, Buddhists, and Sikhs.
While recognizing the significance of combatting Islamophobia, India cautioned against establishing a precedent that could lead to the proliferation of resolutions focused solely on phobias tied to specific religions, potentially fragmenting the UN into religious camps. Kamboj urged member states to adopt a broader perspective on religious discrimination, emphasizing the need to address challenges faced by all faiths globally.
India’s call for a more inclusive approach to combating religious discrimination resonates with the principles of unity, peace, and harmony espoused by the UN. By advocating for a comprehensive strategy that addresses the concerns of all religious communities, India reaffirms its commitment to fostering a world where diversity is celebrated, and all individuals are treated with dignity and respect.
As discussions on religious discrimination continue at the global level, India’s stance serves as a reminder of the importance of promoting inclusivity and understanding across religious divides. By working together to address the root causes of religiophobia, the international community can strive towards a future where tolerance, acceptance, and mutual respect prevail.
