India's Support for Pakistan Resolution Raises Tensions with West

India Backs Pakistan Resolution in UN Human Rights Council

New Delhi, July 13, 2023 - India on Wednesday backed Pakistan's resolution in the UN Human Rights Council that condemned the burning of the Quran in Sweden and called on countries to take steps to prevent religious hatred.

The resolution was adopted by a vote of 28-12, with seven abstentions. The countries that voted in favor of the resolution included Pakistan, India, China, Russia, and many African countries. The countries that voted against the resolution included the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and several other European countries.

India's support for the resolution was seen as a significant development, as the two countries have a long history of rivalry. The resolution's passage was welcomed by many Muslim countries, who saw it as a victory for religious freedom. However, the resolution was criticized by some human rights groups, who argued that it could be used to restrict freedom of expression.

In a statement, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said that India's support for the resolution was "based on our commitment to the principles of religious freedom and tolerance." The statement said that India "condemns all acts of violence and hatred against any religion or religious group."

The resolution's passage is likely to raise tensions between India and the West. The United States and European countries have argued that the resolution could be used to restrict freedom of expression. However, India and Pakistan have argued that the resolution is necessary to protect religious freedom.

It is still too early to say what impact India's support for the resolution will have on relations between the two countries. However, the resolution has certainly raised the stakes in the ongoing rivalry between India and Pakistan.