India has said UN member countries should fulfil their obligations to protect human rights and eliminate policies that discriminate against women.

At an open debate on 'Justice and Rule of Law' at the UN, India's Permanent Representative Hardeep Singh Puri said justice and rule of law were necessary pre-conditions for peace and development. He said strengthening the rule of law at the national level necessitates that UN countries fulfill their obligations to observe and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms for all.

Further, it is also necessary to eliminate policies and practices that discriminate against women. Countries should adopt laws and promote practices that protect the rights of women and other vulnerable sections of society and promote gender equality.

Mr.Puri said compliance with the rule of law standards not only facilitates in resolving conflicts and achieving stability and development in post-conflict situations, it also helps underprivileged and other vulnerable sections of society in getting justice, dignity and empowerment.