Nupur Sharma’s remarks on Prophet Mohammad ‘do not reflect’ views of New Delhi: India says slamming OIC

India slammed the General Secretariat of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) on Monday (June 6, 2022) for criticising the country over suspended BJP politician Nupur Sharma’s statements against Prophet Mohammad. Arindam Bagchi, Spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, stated in a statement that India unequivocally rejects the OIC Secretariat’s “unwarranted and narrow-minded views,” adding that New Delhi respects all religions.

“The offensive tweets and comments denigrating a religious personality were made by certain individuals. They do not, in any manner, reflect the views of the Government of India. Strong action has already been taken against these individuals by relevant bodies,” the statement said.

Bagchi said that it is regrettable that OIC Secretariat has yet again chosen to make “motivated, misleading and mischievous” comments.

“This only exposes its divisive agenda being pursued at the behest of vested interests,” he said and urged the OIC Secretariat to stop pursuing its communal approach and show due respect to all faiths and religions.

Following Nupur Sharma’s statements against the Prophet, the OIC condemned India and asked the United Nations to take the necessary steps to defend Muslims’ rights.

For their inflammatory statements, the BJP suspended its national spokesman Nupur Sharma and fired the party’s Delhi unit media leader Naveen Jindal earlier on Sunday. The party also published a statement to assuage minority’ fears and distance itself from these members, stating that it respects all religions and vehemently condemns insulting any religious figure.