Statement by India under Agenda Item 9 : Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Contemporary Forms of Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance at the 44th Session of the Human Rights Council (30 June – 21 July 2020) delivered by Mr. S. Senthil Kumar, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India (Geneva, 15 July 2020) Statement by India under Agenda Item 9 : Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Contemp..
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Statement by India under Agenda Item 9 : Interactive Dialogue with the

Special Rapporteur on Contemporary Forms of Racism, Racial Discrimination, Xenophobia and Related Intolerance at the 44th Session of the Human Rights Council (30 June – 21 July 2020) delivered by Mr. S. Senthil Kumar,

First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India (Geneva, 15 July 2020)

 

Madam President,

My delegation thank the Special Rapporteur for presentation of the reports.

Madam President,

2. It’s not acceptable that the SR should attempt to broaden the scope of the mandate. We reiterate that ‘caste’ is not equivalent to race and as such bringing this issue under the mandate would be counter-productive. Similarly, it’s not advisable that our security considerations as well as welfare schemes should be looked at from unwarranted perspectives. 

We encourage the SR to appreciate our domestic mechanisms including judicial system as highlighted in the report itself in addressing any grievance including ‘internet access’. We are also of the view that consideration of the internationally emerging consensus such as the Christchurch call of Action would further strengthen her mandate.

Madam President,

3. It is clarified that India’s unique identity system Aadhaar has enabled delivery of benefits and services to the most vulnerable people in a transparent and effective way. This scheme has been highlighted by the Advisory Committee of the HRC in ensuring maximum reach to millions of beneficiaries. It has special mechanism to enrol persons with biometric exceptions. SR’s reference to this digital initiative is certainly misplaced. 

Madam President,

4. India regards racism and racial discrimination as the anti-thesis of everything that humanity stands for - freedom, justice and equality. Our Constitution was among the first to stand against racial discrimination through prohibition of discrimination on any ground including, race. India stands committed to eliminating the scourge of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance. 

I thank you, Madam President.

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