'Unnecessary comments by an external agency': India on UN official's remarks on Hathras, Balrampur

New Delhi: India on Monday termed "unwarranted" the UN Resident Coordinator's statement on the alleged rape and murder in Uttar Pradesh's Hathras and Balrampur, and asserted any "unnecessary comments by an external agency are best avoided" as the investigation process is still underway in the cases. The Ministry of External Affairs also said these cases have been taken "extremely seriously" by the government.

Calling for attention to cases of sexual violence against women and girls in India, UN Resident Coordinator in India Renata Dessallien said the alleged rape and murder in Hathras and Balrampur are a reminder that those from disadvantaged social groups are at greater risk of gender-based violence. In a statement, she said it is essential that authorities ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice speedily and families are empowered to seek timely justice, social support, counselling, healthcare and rehabilitation.

The UN in India is profoundly saddened and concerned at the continuing cases of sexual violence against women and girls in India, the statement said Responding to a media query on the UN Resident Coordinator's statement, MEA spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said some "unwarranted" comments have been made by the UN Resident Coordinator regarding some recent cases of violence against women.