Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Working Group on the issue of human rights and transnational corporations and other business enterprises, during the 47th Session of Human Rights Council (21 June – 15 July 2021) delivered by Mr. S. Senthil Kumar, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India, (Geneva, 28 June 2021)

Madam President,

India thanks the Working Group on the presentation of the reports. We note observations made by the Working Group to achieve significant progress towards promoting respect for human rights in a business context, along with the challenges identified.

2. As we celebrate the Tenth Anniversary of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs), the obligation of protecting and respecting human rights in the business context has assumed greater significance, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

3. India’s endorsement of UNGPs reflect our commitment that businesses respect human rights. We have issued National Guidelines on Responsible Business Conduct in 2019, which provides the framework on Business Responsibility Reporting in India that takes into consideration the UNGPs and SDGs as its key drivers.

4. India has taken steps in streamlining of gender perspective in its business policies. The Companies Act of 2013 mandates companies to spend at least 2% of their profits on socially beneficial activities including promotion of gender equality, empowerment of women and providing shelter for the needy. Certain companies are also required to appoint at least one-woman director on the board.

5. We are also in the process of bringing out a National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights.

6. We would like to hear from the Working Group on what more measures can be suggested for the States to provide effective human rights protection and to ensure accountability of business entities.

I thank you, Madam President.

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