Australian journalist Avani Dias, who served as the South Asia Bureau Chief for ABC News, recently made headlines after alleging that the Indian government had denied her a visa extension, forcing her to leave the country. Dias took to social media to express her frustration, stating that her reporting had “crossed a line” and that she was effectively barred from covering the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. However, the Indian government has since refuted these claims, with anonymous sources stating that Dias’ visa was extended and that she chose to depart.
Dias’ departure from India has sparked a debate about press freedom in the country. She claimed that while she was granted a two-month visa extension, it was made clear to her that she would not receive accreditation to cover the elections. Dias also alleged that her documentary on the killing of Canadian Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar and her podcast “Looking for Modi,” which explored the state of Indian democracy, had drawn criticism from the government.
The Indian government has not publicly commented on Dias’ allegations, but government sources have disputed her claims. Sources quoted in media reports stated that Dias violated visa rules by filming her documentary in Punjab without obtaining the necessary permissions. They also maintained that her departure was due to personal reasons and that she was given a visa extension despite her alleged rule violation.
Meanwhile, a group of foreign journalists in India has expressed concern over Dias’ treatment and the restrictions faced by foreign journalists in the country. They have called on the Indian government to support a free press in line with India’s democratic traditions.
The ongoing controversy highlights the challenges faced by journalists in India and raises questions about the government’s stance on press freedom. As the situation continues to develop, it remains to be seen how the Indian government will respond to these concerns and whether Dias will be able to return to India to continue her reporting.
