Finance Minister Addresses Negative Perception of Indian Muslims in the West

During a gathering in Washington on Monday, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman was asked about the alleged “violence against Muslims” in India and responded appropriately to the unfavourable Western “perception”. Sitharaman compared the situation of Muslims in India to that of Muslims in Pakistan, stating that Muslims in India are faring better. She spoke about the resiliency and expansion of the Indian economy at the Peterson Institute for International Economics (PIIE) and answered questions from PIIE president Adam S. Posen regarding views influencing capital flows or investment in India. Sitharaman encouraged people to visit India and observe the situation firsthand rather than relying on reports from those who have never been there. She also stated that investors who are and have been coming to India have the key to the solution. In comparison to Pakistan, Sitharaman claimed that the contrast may be more pronounced, highlighting the brutality that Shias, Muhajirs, and other minorities face in Pakistan. She criticized Islamabad while stating that every aspect of the Muslim community is now operating in India. In response to allegations and denials on law and order, she stated that each state’s elected government is responsible for maintaining law and order. Sitharaman added that the idea of violence being committed against Muslims in India is false.