Statement by India under Agenda Item 3: Interactive Dialogue with the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms while countering terrorism during the 58th session of the Human Rights Council (24 February – 4 April 2025), delivered by Mr. Gaurav Kumar Thakur, Counsellor, Geneva, 12 March 2025

Mr. Vice-President,

We note the report presented by the SR.

First, let me reiterate India’s position on Terrorism:

Terrorism is an existential threat to international peace and security. It knows no borders, nationality or race, and is a challenge that the international community must combat collectively.

Acts of terrorism violate the right to life of individual victims, as well as of their families and society at large. They are an anathema to democracy and fundamental freedoms.

Best way to place human rights at the centre of efforts to counter terrorism would be to reject terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

SR’s report advocates for greater and more meaningful engagement of civil society in the counter terrorism efforts of regional organisations, in order to ensure that human rights are protected.

My delegation is of the view that the key to more meaningful engagement on such issues would be to work on conclusion of the CCIT. Lack of consensus on a universal definition of terrorism is a major obstacle to global counter-terrorism efforts as well as to any efforts that would flow from regional cooperation.

We call for renewed efforts by all parties concerned in this direction as per Action Point 23 of the Pact for the future.

As far as the implementation of civil and political rights are concerned, their application in all cases continues to be guided by national laws in conjunction with States’ treaty obligation, given the very nature of such human rights.

Thank you.