India a secular nation, minorities safest in this country: Rijiju
New Delhi, July 19 — Union Minister Kiren Rijiju on Friday asserted that India, as a secular democracy, is one of the safest countries for minorities. He credited the Hindu majority for ensuring absolute freedom and protection for all communities, dismissing claims that minorities face persecution in the country.
In an interview, the Minority Affairs Minister criticized what he called a “relentless campaign” by the “Left ecosystem backed by the Congress party” that portrays minorities as “tortured, butchered, lynched, and killed.” He called such narratives harmful to India’s unity and progress.
Rijiju pointed out that minorities from neighboring countries like Tibet, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan seek refuge in India due to its constitutional guarantees and secular values. “Generally, minorities are safest in India,” he said, acknowledging only isolated incidents, often during Congress rule.
He emphasized that everyone—majority or minority—is equal before the law, with minorities even receiving certain benefits not extended to the majority. Rijiju urged appreciation of India’s pluralistic fabric, warning that denying this reality is a disservice to the nation.
Responding to concerns about Muslim-majority pockets, he said no community should feel threatened, and state governments must act if tensions arise.
Rijiju also defended government schemes benefiting minorities, stressing they are available nationwide and do not exclude anyone.
The minister’s remarks come amid a recent exchange with AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi, who accused the government of treating minorities as “hostages.” Rijiju countered by highlighting India’s inclusive policies and minorities’ choice to remain in the country.
