Atheist Alliance International (AAI) is gravely concerned about the ongoing harassment and persecution of Arif Hussain Theruvath, Asia Regional Director of AAI and a prominent secular voice in Kerala, India, who has been accused of blasphemy. We strongly condemn the use of blasphemy charges as a means to intimidate individuals for expressing secular and rational viewpoints. We urge the Indian authorities to put an immediate end to this unjust harassment.
India is a proud democracy with a rich tradition of freedom of speech and expression enshrined in its Constitution. Blasphemy laws, which criminalize dissent and limit free speech on religious matters, are incompatible with these democratic values. In a modern, pluralistic society, such laws serve only to silence voices of reason, undermine human rights, and foster intolerance.
We urge the Indian government to ensure the safety and well-being of Arif Hussain and to protect him from any further threats or legal action based on these outdated and unjust accusations. No one should face persecution for expressing their views, especially in a democratic nation like India.
Atheist Alliance International calls on India to abolish all blasphemy laws that infringe upon individual freedoms and free expression. We believe that safeguarding the right to critique religion is crucial for fostering a just and progressive society. India must uphold its democratic principles by rejecting blasphemy accusations and ensuring the protection of all citizens, regardless of their beliefs or non-beliefs.
We stand in solidarity with Arif Hussain Theruvath and all others facing similar persecution, and we urge the Indian government to act in accordance with its democratic values by ending this harassment immediately.
