Iranian supreme leader Ali Khamenei recently commented on the plight of India’s Muslim minority, prompting a rebuke from the Indian government citing Iran’s own human rights record. Khamenei’s remarks on social media urged Muslims to not turn a blind eye to the suffering of fellow Muslims in various countries, including India. India, with a Muslim population of over 200 million, has faced communal violence and discrimination, particularly under Hindu nationalist aggression. The Indian government criticized Khamenei’s comments as “unacceptable” and accused him of being misinformed.
India’s treatment of its Muslim minority has come under scrutiny, especially with the implementation of a controversial citizenship law that excludes Muslims from certain benefits. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government has been criticized for failing to address anti-Muslim violence and allowing hate speech to thrive. Meanwhile, Iran’s treatment of minorities, such as Baha’is, has also been condemned by human rights organizations. The exchange between India and Iran highlights the challenges faced by Muslim minorities in both countries amid growing concerns over human rights violations.