Indian Government Revokes Visa of Norwegian Journalist Helle Lyng

Indian authorities have cancelled the visa of Norwegian journalist Helle Lyng Svendsen, preventing her from attending the Bharat Summit in Hyderabad, scheduled for 13-14 November 2026. Svendsen, a commentator with the Norwegian newspaper Dagsavisen, had received prior approval for travel, including political clearance, before the abrupt cancellation. The revocation occurred shortly before her planned departure from Oslo, with the Indian Embassy notifying her just ten minutes before she was expected to leave for the airport.

Svendsen gained prominence in May after questioning Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Norway, pressing him on why he would not engage with the press, which she characterised as the 'freest in the world.' The incident drew attention in India, and a video of the exchange went viral on social media.

In a video message posted on X, Svendsen suggested that her visa cancellation may be linked to her previous challenge to Prime Minister Modi and later criticism of the Indian government, specifically regarding issues of press freedom and human rights. She described the decision as puzzling, given that she had already been granted permissions to attend the summit.

The Bharat Summit is expected to draw politicians, journalists, and international participants to discuss critical issues related to media and press freedom. Svendsen was invited to participate in a panel discussion dedicated to the future of journalism.

In her video appeal, she directly addressed Indian Home Minister Amit Shah, urging reconsideration of her visa cancellation, emphasizing the urgency of her situation as the event approached.

The Indian government has not released a statement explaining the cancellation. As per reports from the news outlet The Wire, attempts to obtain comments from the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry of Home Affairs have not yet elicited a response.

This incident follows reports that 113 out of 315 foreign participants cleared to attend the summit faced similar visa issues. Sources indicate that the Ministry of Home Affairs had previously revoked some visas, raising questions about the department's role in such decisions concerning conference attendees.

The situation brings to light ongoing concerns about press freedom in India, especially in relation to foreign journalists who have been vocal about political matters. Helle Lyng Svendsen's case exemplifies the complex dynamics at play, wherein governmental scrutiny can significantly affect the ability of journalists to engage in dialogue on critical issues like media freedom and democracy.