The following article in the Hindu is about the VIII International Conference on Torture, which the final declaration includes a reference to the ICC.

Delhi declaration calls for action against torture

NEW DELHI, SEPT. 25. The Delhi declaration adopted at the conclusion of the VIII International Conference on Torture has called for sensitisation of the political leadership to issues concerning torture at the national

level.

Given the continued widespread practice of torture at the threshold to the new millennium, the symposium sought to expedite the revision of national laws to deal comprehensively with the prosecution of torturers and reparation to the victims.

The other things urged in the declaration included systematic and effective monitoring by national human rights institutions of instances of torture, particularly of custodial violence; repeal of laws providing impunity to torturers; special consideration to practical ways of

protecting women and children against torture and greater involvement of all components of civil society, including health, legal and other professions as well as non- governmental organisations and the media in the fight against torture.

The symposium urged the United Nations to expedite consideration of an Optional Protocol to the Convention against torture allowing international access to all places of detention under the jurisdiction of State parties to the protocol. Expediting consideration of the proposed U.N. principles for restitution, compensation and rehabilitation of victims of grave human rights violations. And ensuring diligent prosecution of alleged torturers and effective protection and redress to victims of torture and their families within the framework of the procedures being developed for the International Criminal Court.

The former President, Mr. R. Venkataraman, who was the chief guest at the valedictory of the symposium said as a result of inhuman behaviour, the victims of torture would become physical wrecks, mentally deranged, psychologically impaired or would die. He said there was no law anywhere authorising third degree methods in investigation and those indulging in such methods were subject to laws of the land and be charged and punished.

He said one way of arresting torture by the police and investigating agencies was to legislate that no confessional statement shall be admissible as evidence by any authority and for any purpose. Medical attention and physical, mental and economic rehabilitation of torture

victims was the responsibility of the state and the community.

Dr. Inge Genefke, Secretary General, International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims (IRCT), lauded the proposal of the National Human Rights Commission to include anti- torture methods in the training of law enforcement personnel all over India and said this was a fantastic development. She said "torture will be dealt with also as a social and political evil that should be confronted - not ignored or banalised".

Dr. Maria Piniou-Kalli, President, IRCT and Chairperson of the conference, Prof. Erik Holst, Deputy Secretary General, IRCT, and Mr. Virendra Dayal, Chairman of the Scientific Committee were among those who spoke.

The Delhi declaration read by Mr. Justice V. S. Malimath, Chairman of the Organising Committee, was adopted unanimously.