Statement by India under Agenda Item 5 – Interactive Dialogue with the Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights on the report of the Secretary-General on cooperation with the United Nations, its representatives and mechanisms in the field of human rights at the 45^th Session of the Human Rights Council (14 September – 07 October 2020) delivered by Mr. Pawankumar Badhe, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India

(Geneva, 30 September 2020)

Mr. Vice-President,

We thank the Assistant Secretary General for presentation of the report on the cooperation with the United Nations, its representatives and mechanisms in the field of human rights and take note of it.

Mr. Vice- President,

2. Any act of reprisals and intimidation against those for cooperating with UN and its mechanisms in the field of human rights are unacceptable. India is committed to ensuring a safe working environment for all including those engaged in promoting and protecting human rights. No individual or group has been denied safe environment required for carrying out legitimate activities in India. All representations of acts of reprisals/threats are examined on the basis of information available and appropriate action is taken on priority basis.

Mr. Vice- President,

3. We appreciate our response being reflected in the report on a few cases. At the same time, we would have liked our detailed facts to be given due consideration before drawing any conclusion. We emphasize that our response and information are shared with the Office of the ASG in good faith and to ensure dialogue and cooperation with the relevant UN system. We sincerely hope that our cooperation would not be treated in a routine manner and will be accorded due consideration. An approach which respects two-way dialogue process is essential for constructive engagement and cooperation between States and the UN system. Issue of reprisals which is a serious agenda of the Council should never be politicized.

Mr. Vice- President,

4. We prioritize bringing transparency in governance and access to information to enable effective day-to-day working of human rights defenders. At the same time, we would like the activities of human rights defenders to be in conformity with the legal framework of India and the rights guaranteed to all citizens by the Constitution of India.

Thank you, Mr. Vice- President.

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