India’s Ministry of External Affairs has rejected concerns raised by the United Nations Human Rights Office (OHCHR) over protests in New Delhi, calling them unwarranted interference in its internal affairs.
In a statement dated 11 October, the ministry said the right to peaceful protest is guaranteed by the Constitution but is subject to public order and safety. It said law enforcement acts according to the law and that citizens can turn to an independent judiciary.
The ministry accused the UN office of double standards, alleging that it had not commented on violent responses to protests in neighbouring countries. It said selective criticism weakened confidence in multilateralism.
The dispute follows protests in New Delhi on 10 October, when more than 2,000 people were reportedly detained as authorities moved to stop demonstrations demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The OHCHR had voiced concern over reports of mass detentions and called for the release of those arbitrarily held.
India’s Permanent Mission to the UN in Geneva also issued the response.
