UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Michelle Bachelet has expressed alarm at the clampdown on freedom of expression in India and 11 other countries in the Asia-Pacific region during coronavirus crisis. 

In a statement in Geneva, she said that any action the authorities take to stop the spread of false information must adhere to the principles of legality.

In India, Michelle said several journalists and paramedical staff have been charged for their public criticism of the authorities' response to the COVID-19.

Meanwhile, Geneva-based Human Rights Council issued a statement appealing to states to ensure human rights while contending with the multiple ill-effects of the virus on their societies.