India Responds To Dutch Concerns Over Press Freedom And Minority Rights

India Responds To Dutch Remarks On Press Freedom And Minority Rights

India has firmly rejected reported concerns raised in the Netherlands over press freedom and minority rights, stating that such comments show a lack of understanding about the country’s democratic values and diverse social structure. The response came during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the Netherlands, after questions were raised in The Hague about media freedom and the condition of minorities in India.

Ministry of External Affairs Secretary (West) Sibi George said India is often judged without a proper understanding of its long civilisational history, plural society, and democratic system. He highlighted that India is home to 1.4 billion people and has remained a diverse nation for thousands of years, with different cultures, languages, cuisines, and religions living together.

India Highlights Democratic Strength And Diversity

George said India’s religious diversity is one of its biggest strengths. He noted that Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism originated in India, while Jewish, Christian, and Muslim communities have also lived and flourished in the country for centuries. He said this reflects India’s tradition of coexistence and acceptance.

Calling India a vibrant democracy, George pointed to the country’s electoral process and peaceful transfer of power as proof of its democratic strength. He said India has achieved development and poverty reduction through democratic means, without giving up its democratic principles.

He also said the rise in India’s minority population from 11 per cent at Independence to more than 20 per cent today reflects inclusivity. India’s response came amid reports that Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten had expressed concerns over press freedom and minority rights before meeting PM Modi.