Selectivity! India responds to UN's detention remarks

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India responded to the United Nations (UN) calling for the immediate release of those detained during protests in New Delhi. The MEA stressed that India's law enforcement authorities strictly adhere to the country's laws and maintain public order, in accordance with the Constitution. The UN had highlighted concerns over the mass detention of protestors, lawyers, journalists, and civil society members during the protests against the Election Commission of India.

The MEA emphasized that India is a democracy with a right to peaceful assembly protected by its institutions, judiciary, and free media. India also urged the OHCHR to apply its mandate impartially and non-selectively when addressing protests in other regions, to maintain its credibility and promote multilateralism.