India on Friday rejected a report by UN Special Rapporteur Gina Romero alleging that young people face retaliation and stigmatisation for discussing mental health and gender justice. India called the report “hearsay dressed up as a report."

Speaking at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Third Committee, First Secretary Anuj Swarup said the Indian Constitution guarantees every citizen the freedom of assembly, association, speech and expression. He said an independent judiciary, a free press and an empowered National Human Rights Commission protect these rights.

“This level of arbitrary report writing is precisely the reason that the United Nations and its institutions have lost credibility. A sweeping charge against the world’s largest youth population resting on anonymous and unverified claims is not evidence. It is hearsay dressed up as a UN report, and my delegation rejects it outright," he said.

Swarup also questioned the report’s observations about a satirical political movement formed by young Indians. He asked whether such a party could challenge the government, march to the national capital and hold discussions with national leaders if India were a repressive state.

“The High Commissioner for Human Rights stated in the Human Rights Council last month that dialogue with young leaders is far more effective in the context of youth-led movement in India. Perhaps that update escaped the Special Rapporteur’s attention," he added.

Defending the government’s response to the July protests over the NEET paper leak, Swarup said Parliament introduced legislation to overhaul the examination system and impose double punishments for paper leaks. He described the move as a testament to Indian democracy.

He also highlighted the continued engagement of several ministers, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with young people through direct interactions and social media.

“We urge the Special Rapporteur to verify before she vilifies and to bring the required rigor and fairness in her reports."

Romero’s report came amid widespread youth protests against Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over allegations of voter deletions and manipulation of electoral rolls.

The report alleged that young people face unprecedented levels of state-sponsored repression and violence, legal exclusion and digital surveillance despite leading pro-democracy and accountability movements.

“Governments and international institutions publicly celebrate youth engagement whilst systematically suppressing critical youth dissent," the report stated.