In a series of correspondence initiated on February 2, 2024, Rajya Sabha member Aneel Hegde voiced grave concerns to Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya regarding the World Health Organization’s proposed Global Pandemic Treaty and amendments to the International Health Regulations (IHR) 2005. Hegde highlighted potential threats to national sovereignty and constitutional rights, citing the undue influence of pharmaceutical interests and lack of transparency in WHO decision-making. Mandaviya responded on March 1, 2024, defending the WHO’s role and emphasizing its support for member states’ sovereignty.

In his rebuttal to the Health Minister, dated March 30, 2024, Aneel Hegde elaborated on his concerns regarding the WHO’s proposed Global Pandemic Treaty and amendments to the International Health Regulations, emphasizing the potential threats to national sovereignty and constitutional rights. Thereafter, Hegde, in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi dated March 31, 2024, reiterated his concerns, urging parliamentary debate and abstention from signing any agreements until thorough scrutiny is undertaken. These exchanges underscored the significance of the issue and the need for comprehensive deliberation on matters impacting national sovereignty and public health.

Rajya Sabha MP Shri Aneel Hegde during the Budget Session on 2nd Feb ’24, in a Special Metion, speaks about WHOs Global Pandemic Treaty and Amendments to IHR 2005 and raises concerns about their threat to our national sovereignty.

The Transcript of the Special Mention can be found here:

Find the Correspondence by Shri Aneel Hegde here: