India has reiterated its call for comprehensive reforms to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), emphasizing the need for changes that address membership categories, regional representation, council size, working methods, and the use of veto power. Speaking at the United Nations, India’s Permanent Representative, Parvathaneni Harish, underscored the necessity for tackling all these areas collectively, rather than isolating the veto issue.
Harish stressed that the veto power, currently held by the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Russia, and China, should be exercised with restraint, especially in matters of international peace and security. He argued that the veto should not serve narrow political interests and highlighted concerns that its disproportionate use by a few countries has damaged the council’s credibility and effectiveness.
According to India, the veto has been utilized 331 times in the history of the United Nations, predominantly by three of the five permanent members. As part of efforts to enhance accountability, Harish referenced a 2022 initiative mandating the UN General Assembly to convene a debate whenever a veto is cast.
India has also advocated for a new framework for permanent membership that guarantees equal rights and responsibilities, including equitable access to veto power. The country warned that introducing a separate category of permanent members without equivalent veto rights could further complicate the reform process.
Furthermore, India reaffirmed its commitment to the Common African Position, which supports a unified approach by the African Union in reforming the Security Council. This call for reform aligns with India’s broader push for a more representative and accountable Security Council capable of effectively addressing contemporary global challenges.