We offer to Help you Tackle Racism: India schools Switzerland over minority remark

At the UNHRC, Indian diplomat Kshitij Tyagi sharply rebuked Switzerland for its comments on India’s minority rights and freedom of expression, calling the claims “shallow and ill-informed.” Tyagi urged Switzerland to address its own issues, such as racism and xenophobia. Additionally, he criticized Pakistan as a “failed state” spreading falsehoods. India reaffirmed its commitment to pluralism and sovereignty, rejecting baseless external narratives and interference in its internal affairs.

In a fiery response at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Indian diplomat Kshitij Tyagi delivered a powerful rebuttal to Switzerland’s concerns about minority rights and freedom of expression in India. Speaking at the 5th Meeting of the 60th Session of the UNHRC, Tyagi dismissed Switzerland’s remarks as "surprising, shallow, and ill-informed," urging the European nation to avoid spreading baseless narratives that distort the reality of India.

Tyagi pointed out that Switzerland, as the current president of the UNHRC, has a responsibility to use the council’s platform for meaningful dialogue rather than unfounded accusations. Highlighting India’s deep-rooted democratic values, Tyagi asserted, "India, as the world’s largest and most vibrant democracy, embraces pluralism and diversity as part of its civilizational ethos."

In a pointed critique, Tyagi encouraged Switzerland to focus on its own domestic issues, including challenges like racism, systemic discrimination, and xenophobia. He further added, "India remains ready to assist Switzerland in addressing these concerns," a statement that underscored India’s confidence and diplomatic stance on the matter.

A Sharp Critique of Pakistan’s Falsehoods

Tyagi’s address also took aim at Pakistan, delivering a scathing indictment of its credibility on the global stage. Labeling Pakistan as a “dump truck of recycled lies,” Tyagi described the neighboring country as a failed state that survives on instability and foreign aid.

He dismissed Pakistan’s repeated attempts to raise the Jammu and Kashmir issue at international forums, reiterating India’s resolve to protect its sovereignty. "We need no lessons from a terror sponsor, no sermons from a persecutor of minorities," Tyagi said. He emphasized India’s commitment to defending its citizens and maintaining its territorial integrity without compromise.

This strong rebuttal is not new. Earlier this year, during the 58th Regular Session of the UNHRC, Tyagi had similarly criticized Pakistan for spreading falsehoods and relying on international aid to sustain itself. At that session, he described Pakistan’s claims on Jammu and Kashmir as “baseless and malicious” and condemned the country’s leadership for perpetuating narratives dictated by its military establishment.

Switzerland’s Call and India’s Response

Switzerland had called on India at the UN to take action to protect minority rights and uphold freedom of expression and press freedom. However, India firmly rejected these assertions, urging Switzerland to focus on facts and avoid disseminating misleading narratives.

Through Tyagi’s strong statements, India sent a clear message that it will not tolerate baseless criticisms of its internal affairs. The exchange highlighted India’s preparedness to counter unfounded allegations while calling on other nations to introspect on their own challenges.