The central government has informed the Rajya Sabha that the controversial remarks made by the BJP’s former national spokesperson against the Prophet Muhammad have not affected India’s friendly relations with the Arab countries. Minister of State for External Affairs V Muraleedharan said that India continues to give high priority to further strengthening ties with the Arab world and understands New Delhi’s perspective and views on the matter.
He was responding to questions on whether the hate speeches and defamatory remarks made by the spokespersons of political parties in India have affected relations with Arab countries and the government’s response to the statement against the Prophet.
“No. India shares historic and friendly relations with Arab countries, which have strengthened significantly over the past few years in various fields including politics, trade, investment, defence, security, science, technology, culture and people-to-people relations.” Muralidharan replied.
Last month, BJP suspended national spokesperson Nupur Sharma and expelled Delhi unit media head Naveen Jindal from the party for allegedly making defamatory remarks against the Prophet.
In response to another question, Muralidharan said that Qatar, Kuwait, Pakistan, Iran, Indonesia, Malaysia and Azerbaijan had summoned Indian ambassadors in connection with the reference to the Prophet.
“Our ambassadors informed that the statements were made by individuals and do not in any way reflect the view of the Government of India. Muraleedharan said, “In keeping with our civil heritage and cultural traditions, India accords high respect to all religions.”