General comments by India on consideration of the resolution on

Freedom of opinion and expression during the 44^th Session of the

Human Rights Council (30 June – 21 July 2020) delivered by

Ambassador Rajiv K. Chander, Permanent Representative of India

[16 July 2020, Geneva]

Madam President,

  The ‘freedom of opinion and expression’ is one of the core foundations of any democratic society. The right to freedom of opinion and expression enables people to be vigilant about their rights and enhances their capacity to participate in the decision-making process. It mobilizes public opinion on all matters particularly on issues related to rights and freedoms.

2. In this context, the draft resolution on Freedom of opinion and expression is an important initiative. We are of the view that promoting the enjoyment of this right would have a multiplier impact on other rights as well. We are also of the view that reasonable and lawful restrictions in exercising this important right would be required to maintain peace, harmony, public order, safety and security of the people. The draft resolution has made an attempt in bringing balance to some of these requirements.

Madam President,

3. At the same time, we also feel that the draft could be further strengthened as suggested by my delegation during the negotiation. From our experience, enacting a Right to Information Act has made a paradigm change in the working of public institutions in India. This has become a powerful tool particularly for the civil society organizations and human rights defenders to demand information from all public institutions in India. We hope that our suggestion would find acceptance among all in future.

Thank you, Madam President.