New Delhi, November 21 — India has reiterated its demand for urgent reform of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), stressing that the existing veto powers held by permanent members are outdated and undermine the credibility of the global body. Indian representatives said that while reforming the veto system is essential, the first step must be to remove the de facto veto that blocks any meaningful change in the Council’s structure.
Speaking at a UN forum, India argued that the current arrangement allows a handful of nations to obstruct reforms that enjoy overwhelming support among member states. Officials noted that this imbalance prevents the UNSC from reflecting contemporary geopolitical realities and diminishes its effectiveness in addressing global challenges.
India emphasised that the veto power has often been misused to serve narrow national interests, resulting in paralysis on critical issues such as conflict resolution and humanitarian crises. The statement underscored that reforming the UNSC is not just about expanding membership but also about ensuring fair and democratic decision-making.
Indian diplomats urged the international community to build consensus on ending the de facto veto over reforms, describing it as the single biggest obstacle to restructuring the Council. They reiterated that a more representative and accountable UNSC is vital for maintaining global peace and security in the 21st century.
The call reflects India’s longstanding position as part of the G4 nations — alongside Germany, Japan, and Brazil — advocating for expansion of both permanent and non-permanent seats and a more equitable distribution of powers within the Security Council.
