Akash Samaroo
In response to concerns raised by Muslim groups in Trinidad and Tobago regarding the official visit of India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Government has reiterated its steadfast commitment to the principles of equality, respect, and inclusion for all citizens.
The visit, part of ongoing diplomatic engagement between Trinidad and Tobago and India, has sparked apprehension from segments of the local Muslim community, who have publicly expressed discomfort over Modi’s presence due to his administration’s treatment of Muslim minorities in India.
The Anjuman Sunnat-ul-Jamaat Association (ASJA) has expressed profound reservations which it says are rooted in extensive and credible international concerns over the Modi administration’s treatment of Muslims in India.
Meanwhile the Islamic Da’wah Movement called on Kamla Persad-Bissessar to raise the issue of Muslim discrimination in India when she meets with Modi.
Asked for the government’s response to these concerns, Minister of Foreign and Caricom Affairs, Sean Sobers said, “The Government of Trinidad and Tobago remains unwavering in its commitment to the principles of equality, respect, and inclusion for all individuals, regardless of race, ethnic origin, colour, creed, or social class.”
Sobers added, “We deeply value the rich diversity that defines our national identity and uphold the freedom of every citizen to express their concerns in our democratic society.”
The minister told Guardian Media that this country continues to maintain ongoing dialogue with all communities to ensure their voices are heard and respected.
But with respect to this country’s foreign policy and bilateral relationships, Sobers said, “Concurrently, Trinidad and Tobago continues to foster constructive relationships with our international partners, including through high-level visits. This approach is fundamental to our commitment to diplomacy, mutual respect, and the advancement of shared values regionally and globally.”
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar was asked for a comment however she did not respond to questions sent to her mobile phone.
Modi’s critics have argued that the actions, rhetoric and policies of his Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) lead to the belief that he holds anti-Muslim sentiments.
They often point to the 2002 Gujarat Riots during which 1,044 people were killed including almost 800 Muslims. Modi, who was the Chief Minister of Gujarat at the time, faced strong criticism for his administration, allegedly failing to prevent and control the violence.
There has also been criticism for certain policies in India which are deemed unfair to Muslims such as the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and the revocation of Kashmir’s special status.
And condemnation for his party’s use of what can be seen as inflammatory language against Muslims by referring to them as “infiltrators.” And the BJP's Hindutva ideology, which critics argue promotes Hindu supremacy and marginalizes minorities
PM Modi and his government have consistently denied accusations of being anti-Muslim. To emphasis his comment to the development and well-being of all citizens regardless of religion Modi would often use the slogan “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Saba Vishwas” which means “Collective efforts, inclusive growth, with everyone’s trust.”
They also often claim that the anti-Muslim criticisms are politically motivated by Opposition parties.