India on Thursday joined the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) members in condemning violence and the recent loss of lives in Myanmar, urging it to exercise restraint besides calling for the release of detained leaders.

After having closed consultations on Myanmar, the Security Council expressed deep concern at the rapidly deteriorating situation, and strongly condemned the use of violence against peaceful protestors and the deaths of hundreds of civilians, including women and children.

 

The Members of the Security Council reiterated their call on the military to exercise utmost restraint. They urged it to fully respect human rights and to pursue dialogue and reconciliation in accordance

with the will and interests of the people of Myanmar. 

 

They called on all sides to refrain from violence. They also called again for the immediate release of all detainees, including State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi and President Win Myint.

 

The crisis had erupted on February 1 when, following a general election win by Aung San Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy party, the military seized control of the country and declared a year-long state of emergency.

 

Taking to Twitter after the closed meeting on Myanmar, India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador TS Tirumurti said that he condemned violence, condoled loss of lives, urged maximum restraint and India's steadfast commitment to democratic transition, release of detained leaders and welcomed ASEAN efforts.

 

The Ambassador added that he spoke on the situation to be resolved peacefully, the need for greater engagement and meeting the hopes and aspirations of the people besides extending assistance to Rakhine

state development programme.

 

The UNSC later said that it continues to monitor the situation closely and would remain actively seized of the matter.

 

"The Members of the Security Council called for safe and unimpeded humanitarian access to all people in need. They also expressed concern that recent developments pose particular serious challenges for the

voluntary, safe, dignified and sustainable return of Rohingya refugees and internally displaced persons. They underlined it is vital that the rights of ethnic minorities are fully protected," said a statement

issued by Council.