India rejects ‘politically motivated, highly malicious references’ in remarks by UNCERD

On August 26, 2026, the Indian government rejected remarks made by the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (UNCERD), describing them as "politically motivated" and "highly malicious." The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, made the rejection known following the UN Committee's concern over "reports of large-scale violations perpetrated by law enforcement officials against ethnic and ethno-religious groups, Indigenous and Tribal Peoples, including Scheduled Tribes, Scheduled Castes, particularly Dalits, and non-citizens."

The Committee had called for addressing "hate speech" and "hate crimes" in India, citing an increase in incidents against Bengali-speaking Muslims and urged the Government of India to ensure accountability for these violations. The MEA noted that the Committee's remarks were heard during India's 11th periodic review under ICERD, conducted in Geneva on August 11-12, with Solicitor General Tushar Mehta leading the Indian Delegation.

The Government of India clarified that the review was a routine treaty-body process, expressing its commitment to combating racial discrimination and highlighting its constitutional safeguards, comprehensive legal framework, and pluralistic ethos. India rejected the UN Committee's sweeping generalisations, unsubstantiated allegations, and potential overreach of the Convention's mandate.