NEW DELHI: With the controversial remarks made by former BJP spokesperson Nupur Sharma against Prophet causing discontent among Islamic countries, India is trying hard to resolve the issue at the diplomatic level.

India made it clear that Nupur's position was not the nation's official position and that the country accepts all religions. "The Government of India accords the highest respect to all religions. The offensive tweets and comments denigrating a religious personality were made by certain individuals. They do not, in any manner, reflect the views of the Government of India. Strong action has already been taken against these individuals by relevant bodies," the MEA said in a press release.

Meanwhile, India also condemned the remarks made by the Organization of Islamic Co-operation (OIC) against India following pressure from Pakistan. "It is regrettable that OIC Secretariat has yet again chosen to make motivated, misleading and mischievous comments. This only exposes its divisive agenda being pursued at the behest of vested interests," MEA added.

The BJP had on Sunday suspended Nupur and expelled media in-charge Naveen Kumar for making controversial remarks. Following the statements of the 57-member OIC and the Arab League, the central government explained its position through the ambassadors of the respective countries.

The controversial remarks made by the BJP leader were condemned by Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Iran. Kuwait and Qatar demanded an apology from India. Qatar summoned the Indian ambassador and handed him an official note on its “total rejection and condemnation” of the controversial remarks made by the BJP leader. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud, who condemned the blasphemy against the Prophet, welcomed the BJP's move against the leaders.

India lashes out at Pakistan
Meanwhile, India lashed out at Pakistan over Pak Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's tweet that Muslim rights were being violated in India. "We have noted statements and comments from Pakistan. The absurdity of a serial violator of minority rights commenting on the treatment of minorities in another nation is not lost on anyone. The world has been witness to the systemic persecution of minorities, including Hindus, Sikhs, Christians and Ahmadiyyas by Pakistan," MEA spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said.