World · Bangladesh Bureau
UN experts call on India to stop excessive force against protesters
United Nations human rights experts have urged Indian authorities to cease using disproportionate force when responding to public demonstrations. The appeal comes amid growing concerns over policing tactics during recent protest movements across the country.
LSN Bangladesh ·
A group of UN human rights experts has issued a formal appeal to the Indian government to end what they characterize as excessive use of force against protesters exercising their right to peaceful assembly. The experts cited concerns about police conduct during various demonstrations across India in recent months, calling for restraint and adherence to international human rights standards.
The UN panel emphasized that while governments have a responsibility to maintain public order, such actions must comply with international law and respect fundamental freedoms. The experts stressed that excessive force undermines democratic participation and can escalate tensions during protests, potentially leading to greater harm.
The appeal represents the latest international scrutiny of India's handling of public demonstrations. The UN experts have recommended that Indian authorities review their crowd-control protocols and ensure law enforcement personnel receive adequate training on proportionate response measures and de-escalation techniques.
The Indian government has not yet publicly responded to the UN experts' statement. The matter adds to ongoing international attention on protest management practices in the region, with various global bodies monitoring compliance with international human rights conventions that India has ratified.
Photo: The Palais des Nations, home of the United Nations Office at Geneva, where the UN Human Rights Council meets, October 2014. Vassil via Wikimedia Commons (CC0).