Why Was Norwegian Journalist Helle Lyng's Visa Revoked Before Bharat Summit?

Visa Revocation Sparks Controversy Ahead of Bharat Summit

New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated on Friday that visa issuance is a "sovereign function" of any nation, in response to reports indicating that several foreign speakers, including Norwegian journalist Helle Lyng, had their visas revoked or denied prior to the Bharat Summit in Hyderabad.

Lyng, who gained attention during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Oslo in May for her inquiry regarding press freedom, was expected to participate in a panel discussion at the summit.

During a regular media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal addressed inquiries about the cancellation of visas for over 100 foreign invitees, while more than 300 others received approval.

The Bharat Summit, organized by the Congress party, is set to take place in Hyderabad on November 13 and 14.

Lyng, an independent journalist from Norway, expressed her disappointment on social media, questioning Home Minister Amit Shah about the last-minute cancellation of her visa, which was issued by the Indian embassy in Norway.

She stated, "I received a visa to India and was scheduled to depart this morning for the Bharat Summit in Hyderabad, where I was invited as a panelist to discuss media and press freedom. However, my visa was revoked due to 'orders from above' in the Ministry of Home Affairs. Here is my message for Amit Shah," she added, seeking clarity on the cancellation.

The Congress party reacted strongly, questioning the government's fear of scrutiny.

"You may recall that a journalist in Norway posed a question to Modi, prompting him to evade the issue. Now, that same journalist, Helle Lyng, was set to attend the Bharat Summit in Telangana, but her visa was revoked before she could arrive. Why is Modi's government so afraid of questions?" the Congress party posted on its X account on Thursday.