Geneva: A debate unfolded at the UN Human Rights Council after Switzerland called on India to take stronger measures to protect minorities and safeguard freedoms of expression and the press. India’s representative described the remarks as “surprising, shallow and ill-informed,” arguing that Switzerland should address its own challenges with racism, discrimination, and xenophobia.
Kshitij Tyagi, Counsellor at India’s Permanent Mission in Geneva, delivered the response during the Council’s 60th session. He said Switzerland, as the current president of the Council, should avoid “false narratives” that he claimed misrepresent India’s democratic system. Switzerland’s delegate had urged India to ensure minority rights and protect space for media freedoms.
India emphasized its position as the world’s largest democracy with deep traditions of pluralism, stressing that it remains committed to democratic values. However, the exchange reflects ongoing scrutiny of India’s human rights record by international actors. Reports from rights groups and global institutions have raised concerns about restrictions on dissent and the treatment of minority communities in recent years.
The disagreement highlights broader tensions over how human rights issues are addressed at the global level. While India rejects outside criticism as unfounded, Switzerland’s intervention indicates a willingness among states to bring such matters into open discussion. The Council has increasingly become a stage where domestic policies are debated against international standards.
