ISLAMABAD: Iran denounced Muslim abuse in India on Monday, calling it “senseless thuggery.”
“Iran condemns the wave of organised violence against Indian Muslims. For centuries, Iran has been a friend of India. We urge Indian authorities to ensure the wellbeing of ALL Indians & not let senseless thuggery prevail,” Foreign Minister Javad Zarif tweeted.
The Iranian foreign minister called on the government of India to uphold the rule of law and resolve disputes through peaceful discussion.
Extremist hindus targeted Muslim communities on Feb 23, burning mosques and property belonging to Muslims and looting them. Several people were burnt alive or beaten to death by the mob as they failed to escape. At least 42 people, mainly Muslims, have lost their lives while hundreds of others have been seriously injured by the violence.
The role of the BJP government was unmistakable as police either stood by the crowds during the attacks, or escorted them. A video in which wounded Muslim men were forced to lie on the ground by police officers and sing patriotic songs showed the connection between the police and the attackers in a viral way.
In addition, politicians belonging to BJP have praised some of the mob members. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has not condemned the violence against the Muslims.
In response to the demonstrations against controversial citizenship law implemented last December and the National Register of People, the attacks were claimed to have been carried out by RSS activists and their affiliations.
