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A prominent United Nations official has issued a scathing condemnation of India, asserting that the nation is failing to uphold its international commitments to protect its Muslim minority. The criticism follows a disturbing surge in hate incidents targeting Muslims across various Indian states, occurring in the aftermath of an attack in Pahalgam, Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
Professor Nicolas Levrat, the UN Special Rapporteur on Minority Issues, conveyed his concerns during a recent briefing to the U.S. Congress. According to reports from the Kashmir Media Service, Professor Levrat stated unequivocally that "India is not living up to its international commitment" to safeguard religious minorities from violence and discrimination.
This strong statement from the UN comes amidst alarming data compiled by the Association for Protection of Civil Rights (APCR). In a mere two-week period following the April 22nd attack in Pahalgam, the APCR documented a staggering 184 hate incidents directed at Muslims. These incidents, spanning 19 different Indian states, impacted at least 316 victims and encompassed a grim spectrum of abuses, including virulent hate speech, violent mob assaults, vandalism of mosques, and even killings.
The condemnation from the UN Special Rapporteur underscores growing international scrutiny regarding the treatment of religious minorities in India. While the Pahalgam attack itself, a act of terrorism, drew condemnation from the UN Security Council, Professor Levrat's remarks highlight a deeper concern about the subsequent environment for India's Muslim population and the government's perceived inaction in ensuring their safety and fundamental rights. This ongoing situation raises significant questions about human rights, religious freedom, and India's adherence to global standards for minority prot
ection.
