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The recent statement by Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei regarding the plight of Muslims in India has sparked a diplomatic row between India and Iran. On the birth anniversary of Prophet Mohammed, Khamenei, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), grouped Indian Muslims with those in Gaza and Myanmar, highlighting the suffering faced by Muslims in these regions. This statement was met with strong disapproval from the Indian government.
India's Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement condemning Khamenei's comments, labeling them 'misinformed and unacceptable.' New Delhi, in a clear rebuke, stated that countries offering opinions on minorities should first introspect on their own records. This statement signifies India's displeasure with Iran's intervention in its internal affairs and its perception of a lack of awareness regarding the situation of Muslims in India.
Khamenei's statement, while drawing attention to the shared struggles of Muslims across the globe, has been perceived by India as an attempt to portray itself as an intolerant nation. The Indian government has consistently maintained that it is a secular democracy that guarantees equal rights to all its citizens, irrespective of their religious beliefs. India, despite having a significant Muslim population, has often faced criticism from international actors on its policies towards minorities, especially in the context of issues like the Citizenship Amendment Act and the revocation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir.
The recent spat highlights the growing tension between India and Iran, which have historically enjoyed strong diplomatic relations. The deterioration of relations can be attributed to several factors, including the economic sanctions imposed on Iran by the United States, India's growing strategic partnership with the US, and differences in their respective foreign policy stances on regional issues. This incident underscores the need for dialogue and mutual understanding between both nations to ensure that their relationship remains stable and constructive.
While the Iranian leader's intention may have been to highlight the shared struggle of Muslims worldwide, his comments have inadvertently raised concerns about India's internal affairs and fostered diplomatic friction. The incident serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in international relations, where even well-intentioned remarks can have unforeseen consequences. Going forward, both nations need to find a way to manage their differences while maintaining the long-standing ties that have historically defined their relationship.
Source: "Look At Own Record": India On Iran Supreme Leader's "Minorities" Comment