India abstained from voting on the resolution for an immediate ceasefire in Syria in line with its traditional approach that it does not mix humanitarian issues with political issues.
An UN General Assembly’s resolution urged for an immediate ceasefire in Syria. The Assembly also expressed a concern at the continued deterioration of the humanitarian situation in the country and demanded quick, safe, sustained, unhindered and unconditional humanitarian access throughout the country.
The Canada-led resolution, which expressed outrage at the escalation of violence in Syria, particularly Aleppo, was adopted by a vote of 122 in favour, 13 against and 36 abstentions yesterday. India along with 35 other nations abstained from voting.
According to the Indian diplomatic sources, India abstained from voting on the resolution in line with its traditional approach that it does not mix humanitarian issues with political issues.
The sources said the resolution had several elements mixed up – the humanitarian elements mixed with a large amount of political elements, which are “contentious”.
China, Russia, Iran and Syria voted against the General Assembly resolution, while Bangladesh, Iraq, Lebanon, Myanmar, Pakistan and Nepal abstained.