India Rejects Netherlands Concerns Over Press and Minority Rights

India has strongly rejected concerns regarding media freedom and minority rights raised during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the Netherlands, describing such questions as stemming from a lack of understanding of the country’s democratic and civilizational character. The response was delivered by Sibi George, Secretary West in the Ministry of External Affairs, during a media briefing in The Hague.

The diplomat’s remarks came after Dutch journalists cited reported comments by Netherlands Prime Minister Rob Jetten expressing concern over developments in India, including press freedom and the rights of minorities. George stated he had not seen any such statement from the Dutch leader and was responding to the media query.

In a comprehensive rebuttal, George outlined India’s credentials as a vibrant democracy. He cited the country’s recent elections, noting a high voter turnout and peaceful transitions of power as evidence of its democratic strength. He argued that India has achieved economic progress and poverty reduction through democratic processes without resorting to violence.

George emphasized India’s historical and religious diversity, describing it as a pluralistic...