Statement by India under Agenda Item 3 : Interactive dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on Minority Issues at the 55th Session of the Human Rights Council (26 February – 5 April 2024) delivered by Dr. PR Thulasidass, Under Secretary,  Geneva, 21 March 2024

Mr. Vice-President,

We have taken note of the Report of the Special Rapporteur on Minority Issues.

India is a multi-lingual, multi-ethnic, and multi-religious country, buttressed by the spirit of pluralism and secularism. We recognize that this diversity is not merely a characteristic but a strength, weaving together the vibrant fabric of our society.

At the heart of our democratic ethos lies a commitment to upholding the rights of all citizens, irrespective of their religion, race, caste, sex, place of birth, or any of them. The Constitution of India stands as a beacon of this commitment, guaranteeing fundamental rights and freedoms, devoid of discrimination. These rights are upheld through robust legal mechanisms overseen by an independent judiciary. Any infringement upon these rights is not just a violation of law but an affront to the principles of justice and equality that we hold dear.

Any section of cіtіzens residing in the territory of Indіa or any part thereof havіng a dіstіnct language, scrіpt or culture shall have the rіght to conserve the same. All mіnorіtіes, whether based on relіgіon or language, are entitled to establish and admіnіster educational institutions of theіr own choіce. The Ministry of Minority Affairs and the National Commission for Minorities are established to address the unique needs and concerns of minorities in India.

Mr. Vice-President,

Respect for diversity is not merely a slogan but a guiding principle that informs our policies and practices.

India remains committed to fulfill the rights of minorities in line with the principles enshrined in the UN Declaration on the Rights of Persons belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities.

I thank you.