India has strongly pushed back against suggestions of declining media freedom and minority rights, with senior diplomat Sibi George describing the country as a "vibrant democracy" that continues to progress without compromising democratic values.
The remarks came during a media briefing in The Hague on Saturday after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten as part of his five-nation tour.
George was responding to questions from Dutch reporters regarding comments reportedly made by Jetten expressing concern over a perceived decline in freedom of expression in India.
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"We face this kind of question basically because of the lack of understanding of the person who asks the question," George said.
#LIVE | MEA Secretary (West) Sibi George highlighted the growing momentum in India-Netherlands defence ties. Both countries are expanding cooperation in defence, maritime security, cyber security, critical technologies and counterterrorism.
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No such issue raised in bilateral talks
People familiar with the matter said the Dutch Prime Minister did not raise concerns related to media freedom or minority rights during bilateral meetings with Modi or in any official engagement on Saturday.
The visit concluded with India and the Netherlands agreeing to elevate ties to a strategic partnership. Both countries also discussed expanding cooperation in migration and mobility, shipping, renewable energy and critical minerals.
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India highlights diversity and democratic process
Defending India's record on minority rights and democratic freedoms, George pointed to the country's cultural and religious diversity.
He noted that Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Sikhism originated in India and continue to thrive in the country. He also said Christianity arrived in India shortly after the resurrection of Jesus Christ, while Islam reached the country during the time of Prophet Mohammed.
"India is perhaps one of those very few countries where the Jewish population never faced persecution. This is the beauty of India," he said.
George also referred to the large voter participation in recent assembly elections held across several Indian states.
"This is the beauty of India. It's a vibrant democracy…That is how we are moving ahead with the democratic process to become a developed country," he said.
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'Every minority thrives'
The diplomat further said India's economic growth has happened alongside democratic progress.
"We are one-sixth of the total population of the world but not one-sixth of the problems of the world. This is the beauty of India which makes us proud. Every minority thrives," George said.
"When we became independent, the minority population in India was 11 per cent. Now it is more than 20 per cent. Name a country where the population of minorities has gone up."
