Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment  or Punishment at the 49^th Session of the Human Rights Council  (28^th February - 1^st April, 2022) delivered by Mr. S. Senthil Kumar,  First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India (Geneva, 11 March 2022)

Mr. President, 

My delegation thanks the Special Rapporteur for his final report presented to the Council and takes note of the conclusions and recommendations.   

Mr. President,

2. The Indian Constitution and the laws made thereunder have elaborate and stringent provisions to safeguard the fundamental rights of all individuals and every contravention is subject to judicial remedies. Any person subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment can approach the courts for various judicial remedies under the law.

3. The right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution of India encompasses the right to live with dignity.

4. The Law Commission of India is currently examining all aspects of criminal law in order to make relevant amendments to the various criminal laws, including Indian Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code and the Indian Evidence Act, etc. It is aimed at improving the legal and judicial system to make them accessible and affordable as well as efficient and effective.

5. We continue to support the United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture and remain committed to preventing and combatting torture and safeguarding the rights of victims of torture and ill-treatment.

I thank you, Mr. President.

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