Statement by India at Virtual Meeting with Special Procedures in relation to Covid-19 pandemic, delivered by Ms. Mini Kumam, First Secretary,

Permanent Mission of India [30 April 2020, Geneva]

Madam President,

We thank you and the Bureau for organizing this informal conversation with the Special Procedures in relation to Covid-19 pandemic. We also thank the chair and member of the Coordination Committee of the Special Procedures for their updates. The impact of the pandemic is still unfolding in a multidimensional manner including on human rights and fundamental freedoms. We all are still assessing the full magnitude of its impact and consequences in future as well. In this context, tackling this threat requires all-out efforts from every stake-holders.

2. At the outset, we appreciate the guidelines issued by the Special Procedures from time to time on Covid-19 pandemic. We are of the view that the guidelines issued by the Special Rapporteur on the right to adequate housing are very relevant in this crisis. Alerts from SPs on many issues such as water and sanitation, rights of vulnerable and marginalized persons, public health, discrimination are important reminders for all of us in tackling the pandemic.

3. As we all are aware, the flow of information is very crucial is carrying out mandated activities by the Special Procedures. In the current situation, we would like to ask how the pandemic has affected the flow of credible information to the Special Procedures. Secondly, are media reports being considered by the Special Procedures as a source of information in the current difficult situation as exceptions.

4. Its sad that instead of joining the global and regional efforts in combatting Covid-19, one country continues its disinformation campaign against India. One can only advise this country to focus its efforts in tackling the pandemic domestically and particularly the sharp rise in number of cases only in the occupied territories and addressing the discrimination meted out to its minorities even in these hard times.

5. Finally, we appreciate the constructive role of the Special Procedures in supplementing national efforts in every possible manner in accordance with the respective mandates.

Thank you, Madam President.