Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: Interactive dialogue with Special Rapporteur on Promotion and Protection of the Right to Freedom of Opinion and Expression (presentation of Report on Freedom of Opinion and Sustainable Development) at the 53 rd Session of Human Rights Council (19June - 14 July 2023) delivered by Mr. Pawankumar Badhe, Counsellor,Permanent Mission of India, Geneva, 23 June 2023

Mr. President,

1.     My delegation thanks the Special Rapporteur for her Report.

2.    We firmly believe that freedom of opinion and expression is one of the basic foundations of any democratic society and polity and acts as an essential enabler of sustainable development. The right to freedom of opinion and expression enables people to be vigilant about their rights and enhances their capacity to participate in the decision-making process. It mobilizes public opinion, particularly on issues related to rights and freedoms. Our Right to Information Act ensures accountability of public institutions in India, and is a powerful tool, including for civil society organizations and human rights defenders, to obtain information from the Government and other public institutions.

3.     The Constitution of India guarantees every citizen the right to freedom of
speech and expression as a fundamental right. Our free, diverse and vocal media, and vibrant and active civil society organizations contribute proactively and robustly to further strengthening of our democratic institutions and the promotion and protection of human rights.

Mr. President,

4.     India will continue to make every possible effort to ensure the enjoyment of basic human rights by all our citizens, including the right to freedom of opinion and expression.

I thank you.