image sourced from original article at At a press briefing in The Hague, India’s Ministry of External Affairs secretary West, Sibi George, strongly rejected concerns about minority rights and press freedom in India. He said such criticism stems from a lack of understanding about India’s history, institutions and social fabric, emphasizing that the country’s strength lies in its diversity, religious coexistence and democratic freedoms.
Describing India as a vibrant and noisy democracy, George pointed to widespread smartphone usage and high voter participation in recent elections as signs of active public engagement and freedom of expression. He stressed that democratic principles and press freedom remain deeply embedded in the country’s political culture.
Responding to concerns about minorities, George said their population has increased since independence and highlighted India’s long history of hosting and protecting diverse faiths, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, Judaism, Christianity and Islam. He also underscored the country’s linguistic diversity and economic growth, stating that India achieved sustained development without compromising democratic values, and invited critics to visit and experience the country firsthand.
