Tamil Nadu BJP leader Ashvathaman addresses UNHRC; calls for protection of Indian civilisation against conversions

In a striking departure from traditional climate discourse, BJP Tamil Nadu State Secretary Ashvathaman Allimuthu addressed the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on March 12, 2026, arguing that the global environmental crisis is deeply intertwined with the loss of cultural and civilisational diversity.

Speaking via a live session, Ashvathaman contended that while global warming is often viewed through a technical lens, its “ignored cultural dimension” is critical to ecological balance. He posited that ancient civilisations — specifically those characterised by “nature worship” and multiple deities — naturally promote diverse lifestyles and consumption patterns that reduce environmental pressure.

The BJP leader drew a sharp distinction between “civilisation” and “religion.” He argued that modern religious structures often impose a “one God, one ritual” concept, which leads to a standardised, high-consumption lifestyle detrimental to the planet.

“We have already lost the great Egyptian and Roman civilizations to religious conversion,” Ashvathaman warned. “It is crucial for the world to protect existing civilisations to prevent further ecological decay.”

Referencing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s global calls for “civilisational self-respect,” Ashvathaman cited the Gadilam River in his native Panruti, Tamil Nadu—traditionally believed to be created for Lord Vishnu—as an example of how sacred narratives protect natural resources.

The submission concluded with a formal plea to the UNHRC to take active steps in curtailing “rapid religious conversions” in regions where ancient civilisations still thrive. Ashvathaman framed the move not merely as a matter of cultural preservation, but as a strategic necessity for “world protection from global warming.”

While the speech has resonated with proponents of indigenous rights and cultural preservation, it has sparked debate regarding the use of international human rights platforms to advocate for anti-conversion measures.