UN chief calls for action against rising anti-Muslim bigotry
urges govts to protect religious freedom
New York: United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has raised alarm over the growing wave of anti-Muslim sentiment across the globe, urging governments and digital platforms to take decisive steps against discrimination, xenophobia, and hate speech.
Speaking in a video address on the International Day to Combat Islamophobia, observed on Saturday, Guterres highlighted the increasing challenges faced by Muslim communities.
“We are witnessing a disturbing rise in anti-Muslim bigotry. From racial profiling and discriminatory policies that violate human rights and dignity, to outright violence against individuals and places of worship,” he said.
While refraining from naming specific countries, Guterres emphasised the responsibility of governments to foster inclusivity and safeguard religious freedoms. He also called on social media platforms to curb the spread of online hate speech and harassment, noting that intolerance against any group threatens the rights and freedoms of all.
“When one group is attacked, the rights and freedoms of all are at risk. As a global community, we must reject and eradicate bigotry,” the UN chief expressed.
Guterres further noted that Muslim women often bear the brunt of Islamophobia due to misleading portrayals that depict them as oppressed. Addressing this issue, he underscored the need for fair representation and policies that promote equality and diversity.
Marking the occasion, Guterres urged world leaders, civil society, and individuals to take collective action in building inclusive societies where people of all faiths can coexist in peace and dignity.
“On this International Day to Combat Islamophobia, let us work together to uphold equality, human rights and dignity, and build inclusive societies where everyone, regardless of their faith, can live in peace and harmony,” he said.
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Bengaluru: PUC student dies by suicide, hours after results were declared
Bengaluru (PTI): A second-year Pre-University Course student allegedly died by suicide at her residence here, hours after the exam results were announced, police said on Friday.
Tanushree (17), a science student, reportedly failed in three subjects, which is suspected to be the trigger behind her taking such an extreme step, they said.
However, no suicide note was recovered from the spot, except her hall ticket, which was found lying on the bed.
According to police, the incident came to light on Thursday around 3.30 pm, shortly after the results were announced.
She hung herself from the ceiling fan when no one was at home. Her mother had gone to work, a senior police officer said.
Citing preliminary inquiry, the officer said it is a clear-cut case of suicide. She was apparently distressed over failing in three subjects and had also called her friends to discuss the same.
When she did not respond to their calls and messages later, her friends decided to check on her, he said.
Based on her mother's complaint, a case of unnatural death has been filed, with Hebbal police investigation indicating it to be a case of suicide, police added.
(Assistance for overcoming suicidal thoughts is available on the state’s health helpline 104, Tele-MANAS 14416.)
