India has strongly rebutted Switzerland’s comments on minority communities in India during the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) session. The criticism by Switzerland triggered a firm response from India’s diplomatic representative, who described the remarks as “surprising, shallow, and ill-informed.” While countering Switzerland’s critique, India also extended an offer to assist Switzerland in addressing its own challenges related to racism and xenophobia.
Earlier, in March 2023, India had summoned Switzerland’s Ambassador Ralf Heckner to protest “unfounded and malicious anti-India posters” displayed near the United Nations and Human Rights Council in Geneva. These posters accused India of atrocities against minorities, Christians, and Dalits, alleging state-sponsored violence. Switzerland clarified that the posters reflected public sentiment and did not represent the official stance of the Swiss government.
