The suspension of Russia from the United Nations Human Rights Council appears to be premature action, as “due process” has not been strictly followed, as pointed out by India in its “Explanation of Vote” speech on the resolution (Page 1, “Russia suspended from rights council”, April 8). When an independent international commission of inquiry has been already established by the HRC itself to investigate alleged violations and abuses of human rights by Russia in Ukraine, it is inexplicable as to how a precipitate action could be taken against Russia even before the commission has submitted its report. What has allegedly happened in Bucha is highly condemnable and demands strongest action, if the allegations are found to be true. But the commission of inquiry has neither completed its investigation nor submitted a report. Even an oral update by the commission is mandated to be submitted in the HRC’s 51st session only. Under these circumstances, the suspension of Russia from the HRC is illegal and premature. This will only lower the stature of the UN body. The U.S. in its eagerness to push Russia into a corner should not initiate hasty actions that could make the UN and its various bodies irrelevant in the long run.
Kosaraju Chandramouli,
Hyderabad
The war in Ukraine shows no sign of abating. The world body of repute, the United Nations, appears to be a helpless spectator since the resolutions passed by it can be vetoed. The U.S. and allied nations, by supplying arms and ammunition to Ukraine, are only fanning the fire of war. China too is trying to fish in troubled waters. The only way to end the war is through negotiation. But who will take the lead as a mediator?
B. Gurumurthy,
Madurai
As the largest democracy in the world and a champion of the non-aligned movement, India’s contrary stand on the Ukraine war is deplorable. Why should we be afraid of Russia? By his aggressive territorial ambitions, Russian President Vladimir Putin has destroyed the future of Russia. Its clout in international affairs will decline. So, there is no logic in supporting Russia. The sourcing of weapons should have been diversified. India should now take the lead in pushing for an immediate and unconditional truce.
Manuel Joseph,
Muttom, Idukki, Kerala
Unending hikes
The rising price of transportation fuels is crushing the lower and middle classes; balancing the monthly budget is becoming very difficult. Added to this is the escalating cost of cooking gas. Governments across the world are putting money in the hands of their people in the expectation that it will stimulate their economies. But our government thinks otherwise. One is unable to understand the logic of the Government behind these price increases. The claim that it has nothing to do with fuel costs and that it is the oil companies which decide this is not convincing.
H.N. Ramakrishna,
Bengaluru
