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India rejects Dutch PM's remarks on press freedom, minority rights
18 May 2026

India has rejected Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten's reported remarks about declining media freedom and erosion of religious and minority rights.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized India's status as a "vibrant democracy" that guarantees free speech to all.

Sibi George, Secretary (West) in the MEA, said these concerns stem from a "lack of understanding" of India's civilizational depth and pluralism.

India is home to 4 major religions: George
Cultural diversity

George stressed India's cultural, religious, and linguistic diversity, saying it is a civilization of over 5,000 years.

He said India is home to four major religions, namely, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, that originated there.

He also spoke about the long history of Jewish coexistence in India and the early arrival of Christianity after Jesus Christ's resurrection.

Journalist questions lack of joint presser
Democratic progress

The exchange took place when a Dutch journalist asked about the absence of joint press interaction during PM Modi's visit to the Netherlands.

The diplomat cited recent assembly elections with over 90% voter turnout as proof of India's vibrant democracy.

He said India achieved economic success without compromising democratic principles, adding that minorities thrive in India.

Minority population in India has grown: George
Minority growth

George also noted that the minority population in India has grown from 11% at independence to over 20%.

He urged a better understanding of India to appreciate its progress.

It remains unclear if Jetten made the remarks, but Dutch newspaper De Volkskrant reported him expressing concerns about press freedom and minority rights before meeting PM Modi.