UNSC meeting on Ukraine ‘Incitement to violence leading to atrocity crimes’

[Tuesday, 21 June 2022; 1000 hrs EDT/1930 hrs IST] 

 India Statement 

Let me begin by thanking Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide Ms. Alice Nderitu and CSO Representatives for their briefings. 

2.    Incitement to violence is antithesis of peace, tolerance and harmony. India has always believed that a society based on principles of democracy and pluralism provides an enabling environment for diverse communities to live together. The legitimate exercise of the right to freedom of opinion and expression under a Constitutional framework plays an important and positive role in strengthening democracy, promoting pluralism and combating intolerance.

3.    There can also be no doubt that terrorism is the antithesis of all religions and cultures. We need to collectively combat both radicalization and terrorism. The United Nations has the responsibility to ensure that countering hate speech and discrimination should not be limited to a select few religions and communities, but should encompass all those affected.  

4.    The Ukraine conflict has impacted not just the Europe, but the whole world.   The conflict is having a destabilizing effect with broader regional and global implications. 

5.    India continues to remain deeply concerned at the worsening situation in Ukraine and reiterates its call for immediate cessation of violence and an end to hostilities. We support all diplomatic efforts to end the conflict, especially talks between Ukraine and the Russian Federation. As we have said earlier, we endorse the call by Secretary General for an independent investigation into atrocities in Ukraine.

6.    The increasing fuel prices and shortage of food grains and fertilizers are having a disproportionate impact, in particular on developing countries. In this context, it is necessary for all of us to adequately appreciate the importance of equity, affordability and accessibility when it comes to food grains. Open markets must not become an argument to perpetuate inequity and promote discrimination. India is committed to work constructively in mitigating the adverse impact of the conflict on food security. India has been providing financial assistance as well as supplying food grains to neighboring countries which are facing the consequences of the Ukraine conflict. 

7.    Let me conclude by reaffirming that the contemporary global order has been built on the UN Charter, international law and respect for sovereignty and the territorial integrity of states.

I thank you. 

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