In recent statements, Shashi Tharoor has addressed concerns regarding attacks on minority communities, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and stronger stances against discrimination. Tharoor has voiced his concerns about the treatment of minorities, not only in India but also in neighboring countries like Pakistan. He has called for his own party, the Congress, to adopt a clearer ideological stance in favor of an inclusive India and to speak out more forcefully against issues such as cow vigilantism and attacks on minority communities.
Tharoor has stressed that attacks on Christians are not isolated incidents but reflect a broader pattern of intolerance affecting various groups. He has criticized the silence of authorities and the "mysterious silence" surrounding the issue, suggesting a need for greater responsiveness and action.
In March 2025, Tharoor expressed deep concern over the deteriorating conditions of religious minorities in Pakistan, describing the situation as "highly alarming". He supported External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's remarks on the issue, noting the absence of formal dialogue between India and Pakistan makes it difficult to address these concerns directly. Tharoor highlighted specific incidents involving Pakistan's Sikh, Ahmadiyya, and Christian communities, including attacks, threats, and accusations of blasphemy.
Tharoor has also addressed incidents within India, such as an attack on a children's carol group in Kerala, allegedly by a BJP worker. He condemned the incident as a shocking attack on a secular tradition, underscoring the anxiety experienced by Christians during the Christmas season due to local incidents and a broader national trend of intolerance.
Furthermore, Tharoor has expressed his personal views on Hinduism, emphasizing its accepting, open, and liberal nature. He has stated that he has a problem when people use religion as an instrument to attack others, referencing violence against minority communities in the country. Tharoor has also voiced concern about the misuse of Hindu religion, faith, and identity for narrow-minded political purposes.
Reports from organizations like the United Christian Forum (UCF) indicate a disturbing trend of increasing violence against Christians in India. The UCF reported a high number of incidents in 2024 and 2025, with Uttar Pradesh and Chhattisgarh being the most affected states. These incidents include burial-related violence, denial of burial space, forced exhumations, and threats of violence and forced reconversion.
