Statement by India under Agenda Item 5: Interactive dialogue on the Secretary General's report on alleged reprisals against those who seek to cooperate or have cooperated with the United Nations, its representatives and mechanisms  at the 48th Session of the Human Rights Council (13 September 2021 to 08 October 2021), delivered by Mr. Pawankumar Badhe First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India

[Geneva, 29^th September, 2021]

Madam President,

1. 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.

Madam 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. The Government of India and its legal system ensure the freedom of every person including journalists, human rights defenders and civil society actors to engage in activities they choose as long as they are in accordance with the relevant laws in force in India. India is a law-based polity and society and the due process of law is followed in case of violations without any exception or discrimination. All complaints of acts of reprisals/threats are examined on the basis of information available and appropriate action is taken on a priority basis.

Madam President,

3.We appreciate our response being reflected in the report on a few cases. At the same time, we would have liked the detailed information given in our response taken into account so as to avoid drawing misplaced and ill-informed conclusions. We emphasize that our response was shared in good faith 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 would be accorded the due respect. An approach which accords due importance to the information shared by States is essential for constructive engagement and cooperation between States and the UN system. 

 Madam President,

4. We prioritize bringing transparency in the governance and access to information to enable our people to have access to information, including those contributing to defense of human rights. We support and encourage the activities of human rights defenders as long as they are in conformity with the legal framework of India.

Thank you, Madam President.