Statement by India at the Informal conversation on Special Procedures together with the Coordination Committee of Special Procedures at Palais des Nations, delivered by Ms. Mini Devi Kumam, First Secretary, Permanent Mission of India (16 December 2019)

Madam Chair,

We thank the Coordination Committee for organizing this informal conversation as part of the ongoing dialogue and engagement of the Coordination Committee with the States and other stakeholders. This would enable us assessing any tangible impact of the discussions on the concerns raised by both sides.

2. We have noticed that due caution has been taken with respect to communications sent to States to enable consultations with their respective capitals. In this context, we would like to refer to a communication received from the SR on the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation. As we were given adequate time, we could consult our capital to clarify the concerns of the SR. Our clarification was also accepted by the SR. We appreciate such constructive engagement.

3. Sharing the end of Mission Statements with the concerned countries is the ongoing good practice. We would suggest here that this statement should be very factual and brief. This is on the premise that the recommendations, concerns and analysis should be part of the report which is to be presented to the Council. That would set the tone for constructive engagement between the concerned state and the SR. On the use of social media, we have noticed that the Special Procedures are not tweeting about visit request as far India is concerned since we had raised the issue.

Second intervention:

5. On the issue of press release, due caution is always required. In addition, use of reliable, credible and dependable information from diverse sources is essential. Press releases should never look to be presumptive. 

6. On the issue of questionnaires, information could be sought in such as a way to enable sharing readily available acts, laws and legislations.

7. Communications seeking information on ongoing legislations or judicial proceedings may be avoided as States won’t be in a position to respond as it involves various other Branches or the processes are yet to be completed.

Thank you, Madam Chair.

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