India Rebukes Switzerland at UNHRC, Citing Hypocrisy

At the 60th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), Indian diplomat Kshitij Tyagi launched a sharp critique of Switzerland, labeling their remarks about India as “astonishing, superficial, and ignorant.” Tyagi, speaking at the session, pointed out that Switzerland, in its role as the UNHRC chair, should refrain from using the council’s platform to propagate what he called false statements that misrepresent India’s reality. He argued that Switzerland should address its own internal issues, including “racism, systemic discrimination, and xenophobia,” rather than criticizing India. Tyagi highlighted India’s position as the world’s largest, most diverse, and vibrant democracy, which embraces pluralism. He stated that India is prepared to help Switzerland address the concerns it raised. Tyagi’s comments reiterated India’s stance that discussions in the UN Human Rights Council should be grounded in factual information, not “false narratives.” He also made it clear that India expects its allies to uphold the council’s integrity and not engage in wasting time on baseless claims. The criticisms were in response to Switzerland’s call at the UN for India to take effective steps to safeguard minorities and protect the rights to free speech and media freedom.