INVC NEWS
New Delhi : In the lead-up to a joint press statement by US President Joe Biden and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former US President Barack Obama expressed his opinion on the matter. During an interview, Obama suggested that Biden should address the issue of protecting Muslim minorities in India during his talks with Prime Minister Modi. Obama stated that if he had the opportunity to converse with Modi, he would discuss the rights of ethnic minorities in India and the potential consequences if their rights were not safeguarded.
Obama emphasized the importance of protecting the rights of ethnic minorities, particularly the Muslim minority in a predominantly Hindu India. He argued that failure to do so could lead to internal conflicts within the country, which would ultimately be detrimental to India’s interests. Obama’s remarks were shared by Congress leader Supriya Shrinate, who posted a clip from the interview.
Watch this video from 2.36 mins – There’s a message Mr Modi’s friend ‘Barack’ has for him.
Guess he’s also a part of an international conspiracy against Mr Modi? At least that’s what the bhakts would allege!
— Supriya Shrinate (@SupriyaShrinate) June 22, 2023
In response to a journalist’s question about the government’s efforts to improve the rights of Muslims and other minorities, Prime Minister Modi, during a press conference at the White House, stated that there is no room for discrimination in India. Modi asserted that democracy is deeply ingrained in India and that the country’s Constitution prohibits discrimination based on caste, creed, or religion. He emphasized that India and the United States share democratic values, which are an integral part of their respective identities.
During Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the United States, he and his delegation were honored with a State dinner hosted by President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden. Modi’s three-day state visit received a warm welcome from the Indian diaspora residing in the United States.
During the joint press statement, President Biden and Prime Minister Modi reiterated the strong bond between the United States and India, highlighting their shared democratic values and commitment to strengthening bilateral relations. President Biden commended India’s contributions to global peace and stability, as well as its efforts in addressing climate change and promoting economic growth.
Both leaders affirmed their commitment to upholding human rights and inclusive governance. President Biden emphasized the importance of protecting the rights of all individuals, regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds, while Prime Minister Modi reiterated that India’s Constitution guarantees equal rights for all its citizens and that discrimination has no place in the country.
The press statement also touched upon various areas of cooperation between the United States and India, including trade, defense, technology, and healthcare. The leaders expressed their intent to enhance collaboration in these fields, fostering innovation and addressing common challenges such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
In conclusion, while former President Obama’s remarks on the protection of Muslim minorities in India added to the discourse surrounding human rights, the joint press statement by President Biden and Prime Minister Modi emphasized their commitment to inclusive governance and the equal treatment of all citizens. The visit served as an opportunity to strengthen the strategic partnership between the United States and India and foster closer cooperation on key issues of mutual interest.
