Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders at the 52nd Session of the Human Rights Council (27 February – 4 April 2023) delivered by Ms. Jagpreet Kaur, Under Secretary, Geneva, 15 March 2023

Madame Vice-President,

 India appreciates the important role played by human rights defenders including whistle blowers and activists in our democratic polity, contributing to its open, pluralistic, and inclusive framework.

 2. India has always condemned instances of harassment, intimidation, smear campaigns and attacks against human rights defenders and their family members. 

 3. Our Right to Information Act, 2005 has enabled people to secure access to information under the control of public authorities and thereby promotes transparency and accountability.

 4. Our Whistle Blowers Protection Act, 2014 establishes a mechanism for complaints against public servants and provides safeguards against victimization of the person making such disclosures.

 5. Our National Human Rights Commission has set up a dedicated 24x7 focal point for receiving and examining complaints about alleged violation of human rights of human rights defenders. In addition, they can also approach the judiciary for redressal of any violations.

Madame Vice-President,

 6. India is committed to ensuring a safe working environment for people engaged in the promotion and protection of human rights and our legislative and executive measures are designed to realise that goal. At the same time, we believe that the activities of human rights defenders should be in conformity with the laws of the land as all the citizens are equal before the law and need to abide by them.

I thank you.

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