Statement by India under Agenda Item 3 : Interactive Dialogue with the
Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief in the 46th Session of the Human Rights Council (22 February – 23 March 2021) delivered by
Ms. Seema Pujani, Second Secretary, Permanent Mission of India
(Geneva, 04 March 2021)

Madam President,

We have taken note of the Report of the Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief. We find that the report has been compiled primarily from unreliable sources.

2. The Report has compromised its purpose by reducing the issue of freedom of religion or belief to one particular religion. We wish that the Report had dwelt into the causes of religious hatred and intolerance in a comprehensive manner, covering the current state of freedom of religion or belief universally.

Madam President,

3. The Report makes several references to India, making unfounded, unjustified and irresponsible allegations. We find the complete disregard of the information provided by us as unacceptable and mala fide. It’s a matter of serious concern and brings into disrepute the institution of Special Rapporteur.

 4. Let me reiterate that the Citizenship Amendment Act of 2019 does not change the naturalization process enshrined in law, enabling any foreigner belonging to any religion to seek Indian citizenship. It is aimed only at expediting the grant of citizenship to persons who entered India before 2014 and belong to those minority communities who suffered religious persecution in India’s immediate neighbourhood.

5. As regards the National Register of Citizens in the State of Assam, the report erroneously mentions its inception in 2018. It is a statutory, transparent, legal process mandated and monitored by the Supreme Court of India directly.

Madam President,

6. NGOs are expected to adhere to all our laws, including in respect of foreign funding, just as they would in other countries. Violations of law cannot be condoned under the pretext of human rights.

7. The Report also makes unfounded allegations against members of public service in India on the basis of unverified information. In case of violation of law, the due process of law takes its own course. However, this cannot be used to raise allegations that States have been complicit in such violations. We reject such allegations and urge the Special Rapporteur to exercise due discretion.

 8. Overall, the report is replete with fallacies and inaccuracies and lacks credibility and objectivity. We fully reject the references made to India in it.

 I thank you.

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