Congress leader Ghulam Ahmad Mir has stressed the fundamental responsibility of every government to safeguard the rights of minorities. Speaking on Monday, Mir emphasized that protecting minorities is a constitutional duty and should be a top priority for any government in power.

"Every government of a nation is constitutionally duty bound to ensure that the people of the nation are safe, borders are protected and protect the minorities...," Mir stated, underscoring the legal and moral imperative of minority protection.

Mir further explained that the rights of minorities are inherent and not subject to debate or negotiation. He pointed out that a group's status as a majority in one country could change depending on its location, highlighting the fluid nature of demographic classifications. "A group which is in majority in one country can be a minority in another country. The minorities should get their rights in their countries. It is inherited. Whether someone demands it or not It is constitutionally defined," he said.

Mir's statement follows recent remarks by Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) President Farooq Abdullah who expressed his welcome towards the return of Kashmiri Pandits to the valley. Abdullah, while acknowledging past challenges in rehabilitation efforts during his tenure as Chief Minister, emphasized that Kashmiri Pandits are free to return whenever they choose.

"...When I was the Chief Minister and when Article 370 was there - I tried to rehabilitate them (Kashmiri Pandits) but the situation was bad those days. Who is stopping Kashmiri Pandits from coming here? It's their decision when they want to come. Our hearts are open for them," Abdullah stated, reiterating his commitment to peaceful coexistence and inclusivity.

Abdullah also addressed concerns regarding the safety of Muslims in the country, stating that many feel vulnerable despite constitutional guarantees against religious discrimination. He urged the government to ensure equal treatment for all citizens, regardless of their faith. "There is no doubt that Muslims are feeling unsafe. I will ask the govt of India to stop that. 24 crore Muslims cannot be thrown into the ocean. They (the govt) should treat Muslims equally, there is no discrimination based on religion in our constitution," Abdullah emphasized.

He further cautioned against any attempts to undermine the Indian Constitution, stressing its importance as a foundational document safeguarding the rights and freedoms of all citizens. "They (BJP-led Centre) should remember that. If they destroy the Constitution, where will India remain?" he warned.