India rejects UN report on youth rights as hearsay

India has formally rejected a report by UN Special Rapporteur Gina Romero, which alleged that Indian youth face retaliation or stigmatization for discussing mental health and gender justice. During the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Third Committee, Indian diplomat Anuj Swarup dismissed the findings as “hearsay dressed up as a report.”

Swarup argued that the allegations were based on “anonymous and unverified submissions” rather than concrete evidence. He stated that such “arbitrary report writing” contributes to a loss of credibility for United Nations institutions.

In his defense of India's domestic policies, Swarup emphasized that the Indian Constitution guarantees freedoms of assembly, association, speech, and expression. He noted that these rights are protected by an independent judiciary, a free press, and the National Human Rights Commission. He also highlighted government initiatives such as the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue as evidence of direct engagement with the nation's youth.