The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) strongly defended Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Norway against questions on press freedom and human rights, stating that many international observers fail to understand India's scale and complexity and rely on reports from 'ignorant NGOs.'
Background of the Controversy
The remarks came after Norwegian journalist Helle Lyng publicly claimed that PM Modi did not take her question during a media interaction with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre in Oslo. Lyng also referenced India's low ranking in the World Press Freedom Index and questioned why India should be trusted.
MEA's Response
MEA Secretary (West) Sibi George defended India's democratic institutions and constitutional framework. 'We are one-sixth of the total population of the world, but not one-sixth of the problems,' he said. He emphasized that India's constitution guarantees fundamental rights, including equal rights for women, and that citizens can approach courts if their rights are violated.
George criticized international commentary, noting that many people form opinions without understanding India's vast media ecosystem. 'People have no understanding of the scale of India. They read one or two news reports published by some godforsaken, ignorant NGOs and then come and ask questions,' he added.
The Incident
Lyng questioned PM Modi as he was leaving the hall after delivering statements. She later shared a video on X, stating that Modi would not take her question and noting Norway's top ranking in press freedom versus India's 157th position. The Indian Embassy in Norway invited her to an official press briefing later that evening.
Political Reactions
The episode sparked a political row. Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi criticized Modi, saying, 'When there is nothing to hide, there is nothing to fear.' Congress leader Jairam Ramesh also targeted Modi over his interactions with European leaders. In response, BJP IT cell chief Amit Malviya pointed out that the Norwegian Prime Minister also did not take questions during the joint press briefing, accusing the Congress of exploiting the incident.
PM Modi arrived in Oslo on Monday as part of a six-day, five-nation tour to attend the third India-Nordic Summit and hold bilateral talks with Nordic leaders.
