The United Nations Human Rights Committee has expressed concern over alleged violence against Dalits, Adivasis, and minority communities in India and has demanded an immediate and impartial investigation from the government.
New Delhi: The United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD) has expressed deep concern over alleged extrajudicial killings, torture, and police abuse against Dalits, Adivasis, and minority communities in India. The global body has appealed to the Indian government to conduct a thorough investigation into these cases and ensure legal action against those responsible. It has also called for immediate action to address cases of hate crimes, racial profiling, and forced deportation.
History
According to findings released by the Committee, there have been reports of widespread violations of the rights of marginalized ethnic and racial groups, particularly Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Dalits, and non-citizens, by law enforcement agencies. These violations include serious incidents such as racial violence, excessive use of force, arbitrary and prolonged detention, torture, and sexual violence.
This committee, comprised of 18 independent human rights experts, monitors compliance with the Convention on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (Convention) in 182 member countries. This convention entered into force in 1969 and requires member countries to commit to eliminating racial discrimination, eliminating segregationist practices, and ensuring equality before the law.
It is noteworthy that this is the first time India has participated in the review process before the committee since 2007. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta led the Indian delegation at this review meeting.
The global committee also expressed concern over campaigns targeting Rohingya, Bengali-speaking Muslims, migrants, and refugees. According to the report, identity checks and racial profiling have led to an increase in cases of arbitrary arrests and ill-treatment without due process of law. The committee urged the prevention of forced deportations and mass expulsions of persons in need of international protection.
Discrimination and Identity Relations
Although the recommendations of this UN Committee are not legally binding, they are considered to have considerable diplomatic and moral significance internationally.
On the other hand, the Permanent Mission of India clarified that during the review, the Indian delegation strongly presented the country’s rich diversity, pluralism, constitutional safeguards, and legal framework. The Indian side underlined that the country is fully committed to ensuring equality, dignity, and opportunity for all its citizens.
Rajan Chaudhary
Courtesy: Hindi News