The Indian government has dismissed Australian journalist Avani Dias’ claims that she was compelled to leave India due to her reporting on Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s killing. Officials allege that Dias violated visa rules while pursuing her professional activities, despite being assured of a visa extension for the coverage of the mentioned incident.
According to the government’s statement, Dias’ previous visa was valid until April 20 and her request for an extension was granted on April 18, extending her visa until June. However, she chose to depart India on April 20 while holding a valid visa.
The government has further denied Dias’ allegations of being barred from covering elections and maintained that journalists are permitted to cover election activities outside of polling booths without authorization letters. Such letters are required solely for access to polling booths and counting stations, which cannot be processed during visa extension processing.
The government also highlighted that other ABC correspondents, Meghna Bali and Som Patidar, have received the necessary letters, further refuting Dias’ claims.
The journalist’s decision to leave India despite having a valid visa and an approved extension has raised questions about the accuracy of her allegations and the reasons behind her departure.
