India dismisses UN expert's report on youth retaliation over mental health

India's representative to the United Nations challenged a report by a UN human rights expert that alleged young people in the country experience retaliation and stigmatization for engaging in conversations around mental health and gender justice. The government official, Anuj Swarup, disputed the findings, describing them as lacking credible foundation.

Swarup argued that the claims presented in the report were based on hearsay rather than verified evidence or comprehensive research. The Indian delegation maintained that the country has robust mechanisms to protect citizens' rights to free expression and discussion on social issues.

The report had raised concerns about the treatment of youth activists and individuals advocating for mental health awareness and gender-related topics in India. However, New Delhi's response suggests the government views these characterizations as misrepresentations of the ground situation.

The exchange reflects ongoing tensions between India and international human rights bodies over assessments of civil liberties and freedom of expression in the country. India has previously contested various UN reports on related matters, often questioning the methodology and sources used in such investigations.