Human Rights Council
31st Session (29 February - 24 March 2016)
Adoption of the Report of the Working Group
on the Universal Periodic Review of Nepal
[16 March 2016]
Statement by India

Mr. President,

India welcomes the delegation of Nepal for the adoption of the report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review held on 4 November 2015. We appreciate the responses to recommendations as an addendum to the report and its statement.

2. The UPR review reflected the intense participation and engagement by peer countries, with as many as 73 delegations taking the floor and 195 recommendations addressed to Nepal that cover a range of human rights both in the realm of promotion and protection. It is encouraging to note that Nepal accepted as many as 152, which is nearly 80%, of the total recommendations.

3. Right to development is a fundamental human right. A climate of political stability, consensus and predictability is a pre-requisite for Nepal's socio-economic development, particularly in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake in April 2015. As the principal donor in global support for Nepal's post-earthquake reconstruction, India urges a strong national consensus in Nepal on its political and developmental agenda.

4. We regard the two Constitutional amendments passed by the Nepali Parliament in January 2016 as positive developments. We hope that other remaining issues will be similarly addressed in a constructive spirit in a defined timeframe.

5. India believes that Nepal has gained much from its participation in the UPR and will continue with its efforts to implement its recommendations. India will continue to extend all support and assistance to Nepal, for peace, stability and socio-economic development of the country.

Thank you, Mr. President.
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