New Delhi | October 27, 2026
India has renewed its demand for comprehensive reforms of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), warning that veto power must not be used to advance the narrow political interests of individual countries.
Addressing the United Nations in New York on October 26, India’s Permanent Representative, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, called for greater accountability, equal rights for permanent members and time-bound negotiations to modernise the Security Council.
India Pushes for Reforms Across Five Key Areas
India emphasised that meaningful UNSC reform must address five interconnected areas: membership categories, regional representation, Council size, working methods and veto powers.
Harish argued that changing veto rules alone would not resolve structural inequalities within the Council. He urged member states to begin negotiations based on written proposals, supported by clear timelines and milestones.
India Questions Use of Veto Power
The five permanent members—China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States—currently hold veto powers.
According to figures cited by Harish, the veto has been exercised 331 times across approximately 200 resolutions in the UN’s history. He argued that its use has raised concerns about the Security Council’s credibility and effectiveness.
India also questioned whether the 2022 UN General Assembly initiative requiring debates after vetoes has delivered sufficient accountability.
Equal Rights for New Permanent Members
India reaffirmed its support for the Common African Position, maintaining that all permanent members of an expanded Security Council should enjoy equal rights and responsibilities.
Harish warned that creating new permanent seats without equivalent powers would preserve existing inequalities rather than deliver meaningful reform.
India Seeks a More Representative Security Council
New Delhi has consistently argued that the Security Council must reflect contemporary geopolitical realities rather than the international power structure established after World War II.
India’s latest statement reinforces its demand for a more representative, transparent and accountable UN body capable of responding effectively to global security challenges.
