India remains tight lipped until vote is taken

Wednesday, 24 March 2021 00:24 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

India played its cards close to the chest until the bitter end, but finally abstained from voting on the UNHRC resolution on Sri Lanka last evening.

Making its remarks during the general comments section when the Sri Lanka Resolution was taken up at the Council, the Indian representative reiterated that New Delhi’s approach to human rights in Sri Lanka was guided by its support to the Tamil people for equality, justice, dignity and peace and ensuring the unity, stability and territorial integrity of Sri Lanka. The Indian representative did not indicate which way New Delhi would swing even during these final interventions.

“India supports the call by the international community for the Government of Sri Lanka to fulfil its commitments on the devolution of political authority, including through the early holding of elections for Provincial Councils and to ensure that all Provincial Councils are able to operate effectively, in accordance with the 13th Amendment to the Sri Lankan Constitution,” the Indian representative said.

“At the same time, we believe that the work of OHCHR should be in conformity with mandate given by the relevant resolutions of the UN General Assembly,” the statement continued.

New Delhi also urged the Government of Sri Lanka carry forward the process of reconciliation, address the aspirations of the Tamil community and continue to engage constructively with the international community to ensure that the fundamental freedoms and human rights of all its citizens are fully protected.