Pakistan Expresses Concern Over Treatment of Minorities in India Amid Christmas Vandalism Reports

Pakistan’s Foreign Office on Monday voiced deep concern over the persecution of religious minorities in India, highlighting recent incidents of vandalism that marred Christmas celebrations and broader allegations of state-sponsored campaigns targeting Muslims.

In a statement, the ministry condemned “recent condemnable incidents of vandalism during Christmas,” describing them as part of a pattern that has heightened fear among minority communities.

The Foreign Office pointed to reported attacks on Christmas decorations in shopping malls and schools across states including Chhattisgarh and Assam, as well as ongoing issues such as home demolitions and lynchings of Muslims. It specifically referenced the 2015 case of Mohammad Akhlaq, a Muslim man lynched in Dadri over beef consumption rumors, claiming the state shielded the perpetrators.

“These acts have deepened fear and alienation among Muslims in India,” the statement read, urging the international community to take note and press India to protect minorities’ fundamental rights.

Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi emphasized the need for concrete measures to safeguard minority places of worship, cultural heritage, and basic freedoms.

The remarks come amid reports from Indian media and rights groups of disruptions to Christmas events in multiple states, including vandalism by right-wing groups and harassment of Christian celebrations.

Pakistan has frequently raised concerns about minority rights in India, while Indian officials have in the past accused Pakistan of similar issues. No immediate response was available from India’s Ministry of External Affairs.