India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Parvathaneni Harish, has called for the protection of civilians during armed conflicts, stressing the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law. Speaking at a UN Security Council briefing on the protection of civilians in armed conflict, Harish emphasized that all parties must distinguish between civilians and combatants and take all feasible precautions to avoid harm to civilian populations and infrastructure.
India's Stance on Civilian Protection
Harish reiterated India's consistent position that the protection of civilians is a fundamental principle of international law. He highlighted that the UN Security Council must ensure accountability for violations of international humanitarian law, including attacks on schools, hospitals, and other civilian infrastructure. He also called for unimpeded humanitarian access to affected populations.
Call for Ceasefire and Dialogue
The Indian envoy urged all parties to conflicts to agree to immediate ceasefires and engage in dialogue to resolve disputes peacefully. He underscored the need for a comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of conflicts, including poverty, inequality, and lack of development.
India's Contribution to Peacekeeping
Harish noted India's long-standing commitment to UN peacekeeping operations, with over 200,000 troops having served in 49 missions. He emphasized that India's contributions reflect its dedication to the protection of civilians and the maintenance of international peace and security.
The briefing comes amid growing concerns over the rising number of civilian casualties in conflicts around the world, including in Ukraine, Gaza, and parts of Africa. Harish's remarks align with India's broader foreign policy, which advocates for peaceful resolution of disputes and adherence to international law.
