India Completes 4th ICCPR Human Rights Review

India has successfully completed its 4th periodic review by the Human Rights Committee under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) in Geneva, showcasing its commitment to the protection and promotion of human rights.

Indian Delegation

The Indian delegation was co-led by Attorney General Shri R. Venkataramani and Solicitor General Shri Tushar Mehta, and included Secretary (West) Shri Pavan Kapoor. Senior officials from multiple ministries, including Women and Child Development, Social Justice and Empowerment, Electronics and Information Technology, Minority Affairs, External Affairs, Tribal Affairs, and Home Affairs, were also part of the delegation.

Review Details

The review, conducted on July 15-16, 2024, involved a constructive dialogue with the Human Rights Committee on various civil and political rights issues. Topics discussed included anti-corruption measures, non-discrimination, women’s and minorities’ status, counter-terrorism and national security, judicial framework, privacy and data protection laws, and new criminal laws.

India’s Achievements

India highlighted its efforts in protecting vulnerable groups and its contributions to the global human rights framework. The Committee appreciated India’s traditions of pluralism, non-violence, and diversity, noting its status as a vibrant parliamentary democracy.

Committee’s Role

The Human Rights Committee, composed of 18 independent experts, monitors the implementation of ICCPR by conducting periodic reviews and making observations and recommendations.

Historical Context

India, a state party to ICCPR since 1979, had previously undergone three reviews, the last in 1997. The ICCPR, adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1966, commits nations to respect civil and political rights and came into force in 1976.