Results for: Avani Dias

The Indian government has been accused of targeting foreign journalists and restricting their work, raising concerns about press freedom in the country. The case of Avani Dias, a correspondent for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, has sparked outrage after she was denied a visa extension after reporting on sensitive issues. French journalist Vanessa Dougnac also faced similar pressure, leading to her departure from India. Foreign journalists in India often face harassment and pressure, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists, and the government’s use of visa regulations as a tool of repression is seen as a violation of journalists’ rights.

Australian journalist Avani Dias has abruptly left India after being informed by the Narendra Modi government that her visa extension would be denied. The decision was reportedly prompted by her coverage of the killing of a Sikh separatist leader, which the government deemed had “crossed a line.” Dias, who has worked in India since January 2022, has faced increasing pressure from the government, which has made it difficult for her to report on events such as the national elections. The incident has raised concerns about sliding press freedom in India, where foreign journalists have come under increasing scrutiny and pressure.

The Indian government has denied Australian journalist Avani Dias’ allegations that she was forced to leave the country due to her reporting on Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s killing. The government claims that she violated visa rules and her allegations are ‘mischievous and misleading.’

Avani Dias, the South Asia Bureau Chief for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, was forced to leave India on April 19th after the government declined to extend her work visa. Dias claims that the government objected to her reporting on the assassination of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation stated that Ms. Dias was informed of the decision by an official from the Ministry of External Affairs, who said that her most recent Foreign Correspondent episode “crossed a line”. YouTube has blocked access in India to that episode.