Statement by India under Agenda Item 5: Interactive Dialogue on the Secretary-General’s Report on cooperation with the United Nations, its representatives and mechanism in the field of human rights at the 54th Session of Human Rights Council (11 September - 13 October 2023) delivered by Ms. Jagpreet Kaur, Under Secretary, Geneva, 28 September 2023
Mr. President
1. We thank the Assistant Secretary General for presentation of the Report.
2. Any acts of reprisals and intimidation against those cooperating with the UN and its mechanisms in the field of human rights are unacceptable. India is committed to ensuring a safe working environment for all including those engaged in promoting and protecting human rights.
Mr. President
3. We appreciate our response being reflected in the report. At the same time, we would have liked our detailed facts to be given due consideration before drawing any conclusion. We emphasize that our response was shared in good faith to ensure dialogue and cooperation with the UN system. An approach which respects two-way dialogue process is essential for constructive engagement and cooperation between States and the UN system.
Mr. President,
4. As regards the statement made by one delegation during this Interactive Dialogue, we reject their false and malicious propaganda against India. The dismal human rights situation in that country is well known, including persistent and pervasive violations of human rights of religious and ethnic minorities. We advise the country concerned to meet its human rights obligations and commitments and not resort to diversionary tactics to detract the international community’s attention from the miscarriage of justice within that country.
I thank you
