New Delhi: The count in the number of countries to have lodged official protests against India over the controversial remarks made by the now-suspended BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma against the Prophet has gone up to 15. These include Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman, the UAE, Iran, Jordan, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Maldives, Libya and Indonesia.
Now, the Taliban-led Afghanisation government is also lecturing India on ‘fanatics’. Condemning the remarks, Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said, “We urge the Indian government not to allow such fanatics to insult the holy religion of Islam and provoke the feelings of Muslims.”
He said, “The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan strongly condemns the use of derogatory words against the Prophet of Islam (Peace be upon him)by an official of the ruling party in India.”
Newly-elected Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also condemned the remarks saying, “I condemn in strongest possible words hurtful comments of India’s BJP leader about our beloved Prophet (PBUH). Have said it repeatedly India under Modi is trampling religious freedoms & persecuting Muslims. World should take note & severely reprimand India. Our love for the > Our love for the Holy Prophet (PBUH) is supreme. All Muslims can sacrifice their life for the Love & Respect of their Holy Prophet (PBUH).”
As the issue gained traction on social media, calls were made to boycott Indian products in several countries. According to reports, Indian products were taken off the shelves in Kuwait.
Violence broke out in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh after a Muslim organisation gave a call to shut shops in Parade Market over the remarks made by Nupur Sharma. At least 40 people, including 20 police personnel were injured during the clashes, the police were quoted as saying.
Congress has demanded the immediate arrest of those who have defamed India at the international level instead of enacting a “drama of action”. Asking why those responsible for putting out offensive comments had not been arrested yet, Congress said it was unacceptable for the nation to apologise for such mistakes.
“Divided internally, India becomes weak externally. BJP’s shameful bigotry has not only isolated us but also damaged India’s standing globally,” Rahul Gandhi said on Twitter.
