Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 13 May 2020
27. Deputy Joan Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has raised concerns with the Indian Embassy regarding the killing of over 40 persons in New Delhi in February 2020; and his plans to raise this issue with his European counterparts. [4523/20]
View answerI am deeply saddened by the recent violence and loss of life in New Delhi following demonstrations about the Citizenship Amendment Act. The demonstrators claim that the Act is discriminatory because, unlike other religious groups, Muslims would not benefit from the Act. I understand that the Indian Supreme Court is considering numerous petitions against the Act and that the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights is seeking to submit an "amicus curiae" brief to the Court.
The promotion of human rights is a cornerstone of Ireland’s foreign policy and Ireland is committed to defending freedom of thought, conscience and religion, including the rights of persons belonging to religious minorities. The European Union aims to engage with India as a strategic partner on a broad range of issues, particularly on human rights. EU Foreign Ministers met with Foreign Minister Jaishankar in Brussels on 17 February for a wide-ranging discussion. During his visit, Minister Jaishankar also met with Members of the European Parliament and he publically defended the Citizenship Amendment Act. The European Union and India were due to hold a Summit meeting on 13 March but, unfortunately, this has been postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak.
Our Embassy in New Delhi will continue to monitor and report on relevant developments, particularly the outcome of the Supreme Court’s deliberations.
