In a recent interview, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that Indian society unequivocally embraces "no sense of discrimination towards any religious minority" when addressing inquiries regarding the future of Muslim minorities within the nation. In his conversation with the UK-based Financial Times, Modi went beyond this assertion, shedding light on the economic prosperity of Parsis in India. He pointed out that despite facing persecution in other parts of the world, Parsis have discovered a secure haven in India, where they lead content and prosperous lives.
In elaborating on this perspective, Prime Minister Modi underscored the significance of Parsis as a "religious micro-minority" that has not only found refuge in India but has also thrived within its diverse cultural tapestry. The example of Parsis, according to Modi, serves as a testament to the absence of discriminatory sentiments within Indian society toward any religious minority.
In the course of the interview, Prime Minister Modi addressed various other topics, including responding to the United States' claims regarding the alleged involvement of an Indian national in a plot to assassinate Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Modi expressed the government's commitment to thoroughly examine any evidence presented in this regard.
Furthermore, he assured that the bilateral relations between India and the United States would remain unharmed despite a "few incidents." This assertion underscores the Prime Minister's confidence in the resilience of the diplomatic ties between the two nations, even in the face of challenges.
Addressing allegations of suppressing dissent, Prime Minister Modi responded with a lighthearted tone, expressing amusement and laughter. He acknowledged the existence of a comprehensive ecosystem that freely exercises its right to critique the government through various media platforms, including editorials, TV channels, social media, videos, and tweets. Modi defended this as a legitimate exercise of democratic rights, asserting that critics have the freedom to voice their opinions. Additionally, he highlighted the importance of countering allegations with factual information, emphasizing the equal right of others to respond with evidence-backed perspectives.
In essence, the interview provided a comprehensive insight into Prime Minister Narendra Modi's stance on issues ranging from religious minorities to international relations and handling dissent, presenting a nuanced and detailed perspective on the multifaceted challenges and dynamics at play.
