- A Norwegian journalist, Helle Lyng, gained viral attention for challenging Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his officials during his visit to Norway regarding press freedom.
- Mr Modi, who has not held a solo press conference in India since 2014, walked away when Ms Lyng asked why he wouldn't take questions from the press.
- India is ranked 157th out of 180 countries in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index, placing it in the 'very serious' category, while Norway ranks first.
- During a subsequent press briefing, Ms Lyng pressed Indian diplomats on human rights violations and press freedom, with senior diplomat Sibi George defending India's democratic credentials.
- Concerns about the erosion of press freedom and minority rights in India were also raised by Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten during Mr Modi's European tour.
IN FULL
