Nobel laureate economist Amartya Sen has voiced his concerns over the current political and social situation in India.

"I think if someone asks me if I'm scared of something, I would say 'yes'. There is a reason to be afraid now. The current situation in the country has become a cause for fear," he said on Thursday (June 30, 2022) at the inauguration of Amartya Research Centre in Salt Lake area of Kolkata.

"I want the country to be united. I don't want division in a country that was historically liberal. We have to work together," Sen said, our New Delhi correspondent reports.

He said India cannot belong only to Hindus or to Muslims and emphasized on staying united in line with the country's traditions.

"India cannot be of Hindus only. Also, Muslims alone cannot make India. Everyone has to work together," Sen remarked.

"I want the country to remain united as before. The people need to understand this more," he added.