Statement by India under Agenda Item 2: Enhanced Interactive dialogue on the situation of human rights of women and girls in Afghanistan, during the 51st Session of Human Rights Council (12 September - 7 October 2022) delivered by Mr. Pawankumar Badhe, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India (12 September 2022)
Mr. President,
We thank the Speakers for their presentation and share their concerns about the situation of women and girls in Afghanistan.
2. As a contiguous neighbor and long-standing partner of Afghanistan, India has enduring stakes in ensuring the return of peace and stability there. Given our strong historical and civilizational linkages with the Afghan people, we express our concern at the recent developments in Afghanistan which adversely impact the well-being of women and girls.
3. There has been an increasing attempt towards removing women from public life in Afghanistan. Their basic rights, including freedom of speech and opinion, access to education and medical care, have been drastically hampered.
4. We join others in calling for full protection of the rights of women and girls, ensuring that the long-fought gains of the last two decades are not reversed. We also urge the UNAMA to make all efforts to ensure that the rights of women, children and minorities are respected and preserved.
I thank you, Mr. President.
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