Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Working Group
23rd Session (2 - 13 November 2015)

2nd UPR of Nepal - Interactive Dialogue
Wednesday, 4 November 2015, 14:30 - 18:00 hrs

Statement of India

Mr. President,

1.   India welcomes the delegation of Nepal led by H.E. Mr. Kamal Thapa, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Mr. President,

2.   The people of Nepal, having endured a devastating earthquake in April 2015, are facing another tough challenge during the ongoing political transition. Violence and instability in parts of Nepal has worsened in the run-up to and after the adoption of Nepal's Constitution in September 2015. Over 45 persons died, mostly civilians, and hundreds injured. Firings, which had ceased just after the adoption of the Constitution, have reoccurred. We are concerned over the lack of political progress.

3.   We note the concerns expressed by UN human rights bodies, UN Country Team and Nepal's own Human Rights Commission over continuing incidents of violence, extra-judicial killings and ethnic discrimination in the country. We urge the Government of Nepal to investigate and take credible measures to prevent their recurrence. Problems facing Nepal are political in nature and cannot be resolved through force or a security-based approach.

4.   As a close and friendly neighbor, India has consistently appealed to the Government of Nepal to address all challenges in a spirit of dialogue and reconciliation. We recommend the Government of Nepal to

1. consolidate the constitution building and democratization process by accommodating all sections of Nepal to enable broad-based ownership and participation;
2. ensure effective functioning of Truth and Reconciliation Commission and full implementation of its recommendations, including prosecution of those responsible for violent insurgency;
3. ensure the independence and financial autonomy of the National Human Rights Commission, and
4. set up an independent Commission for children and women.

Mr. President,

5.   Obstruction referred in the Hon'ble Minister's statement is on Nepalese side caused by Nepalese protesters.

6.    India, with deep rooted historic and cultural ties, will continue to extend all assistance to Nepal, for peace, stability and socio-economic development of the country.

Thank you Mr. President.

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