Statement by India  at the Fifteenth Session of the Forum on Minority Issues(1-2 December 2022)under Agenda Item 5: Open dialogue: urgent situations faced by minorities delivered by Mr. S. Senthil Kumar, First Secretary (2 December 2022)

Thank you Mr. Chair.

 My delegation welcomes convening of this Forum. We believe it is the responsibility of the States to ensure promotion and protection of the rights of their minorities.

 2. India is a multi-cultural, multi-religious and multi-lingual secular polity with inherent civilizational ethos of pluralism. The Constitution of India has guaranteed justiciable fundamental rights to all Indian citizens without any discrimination on the basis of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth. Special legal protection for conservation of distinct culture, language and script and other interests of the minority communities has also been guaranteed therein. Right to equality, freedom of religion, cultural and educational rights and protection for linguistic minorities are notable provisions in the Constitution, in this regard.

 3. In addition to the protections enshrined in the Constitution, specific legislations have also been enacted for the welfare of the minority communities. Religious minorities are free to follow their personal laws in relation to matrimonial and other family affairs. The National Commission for Minorities Act, 1992 was enacted to constitute a National Commission for Minorities. The National Commission for Minority Educational Institutions was also established by legislation in 2004. The Ministry of Minority Affairs was carved out of Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment in 2006 in order to ensure the welfare of the minority communities.

 4. When the rights guaranteed under the Constitution for the welfare of the minorities are violated, the right to Constitutional Remedies allows the aggrieved citizens or others on their behalf to approach the Supreme Court of India or the concerned High Court directly. In addition, there are various penal laws in India that provide for punishment for discriminating against or victimization of minorities.

 5. In conclusion, India remains committed to guarantee all rights to its minorities in line with its commitments under national and international instruments.

I thank you.

*****