Statement by India under Agenda Item 2:  General debate on the oral update by the High Commissioner, reports on OHCHR activities in Colombia, Guatemala and Honduras, OHCHR oral update on Cyprus at the 55th Session of the Human Rights Council (26 February – 5 April 2024) delivered by Ambassador Arindam Bagchi, Permanent Representative of India, Geneva, 4 March 2024

Mr. President,

We thank the High Commissioner for his global update. We have noted his comments about our forthcoming general elections. However, his concerns in this regard are unwarranted and do not reflect the reality of the largest democracy in the world. In any democracy, argumentation is natural. It is imperative that those in positions of authority do not allow their judgement to be clouded by propaganda.

Plurality, diversity, inclusivity and openness are at the core of our democratic polity and our Constitutional values. These are backed by fiercely independent institutions, including a robust judiciary, that aim to protect the rights of all. Our electoral process has been characterized by a high degree of people’s participation and full faith in the electoral mandate by all. In fact, we are privileged that many across the world seek to learn from our experience and aspire to emulate it. We have no doubt that as in numerous occasions in the past, the Indian people will freely exercise their vote to choose a government that they believe can best give voice and flight to their aspirations.

Mr. President,

India, as home to one sixth of humanity, has led from the front with an enduring dedication to promotion and protection of human rights for all. In this endeavour, our approach has been guided by our civilizational ethos that views the world as one family. More recently, this commitment was manifest in our response to the pandemic by providing assistance to our friends and partners across the world, our disaster relief efforts and support during crises in various countries, our development initiatives across the world, and our G20 Presidency last year, where we particularly voiced the concerns of the Global South. It is in this spirit that we welcome the renewed focus on issues affecting us all, such as reform of multilateral governance structures including international financial architecture, enhancing technical assistance and capacity building, sustainable development, and the need for peace.

Mr. President,

Today, when the world is riddled with conflicts and war, India has been a voice of reason consistently calling for dialogue and diplomacy. It is only when peace is given a chance that the most vulnerable can hope for a better future where their basic needs are met, and their human rights are protected.

Thank you.