India

US State Department responds to allegations of visa denial to Australian journalist covering Indian elections, emphasizing countries' sovereignty in visa policies. Journalist's claims refuted; visa extension granted for election coverage.

In a recent interaction, the US State Department addressed questions raised by a Pakistani reporter concerning allegations surrounding the denial of visa renewal to Australian journalist Avani Dias for coverage of the 2024 Indian general elections. Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel emphasized the sovereignty of countries in determining visa policies for non-citizens, including journalists.

Patel refrained from commenting directly on India's visa policy, stating that it falls within the jurisdiction of the Indian government. However, he underscored the significance of a free press in upholding democratic values globally.

Avani Dias, a correspondent for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), claimed she was not permitted to cover the elections and was compelled to leave the country. Contrary to her assertions, official sources have deemed her claims as misleading and clarified that Dias was found to have breached visa regulations during her professional activities. Despite this, her request for visa extension to cover the elections was accommodated.

It was further clarified that Dias's assertion of being barred from election coverage was factually inaccurate. Visa-holding journalists are permitted to cover election-related activities outside polling booths.

During the briefing, Patel also declined to comment on an internal investigation report by the Indian government regarding an alleged assassination plot involving Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Patel deferred to the US Department of Justice on the matter.

Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, designated as a terrorist by India, holds American and Canadian citizenship and has made repeated threats against India. The US Justice Department has indicted Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national in custody, for allegedly conspiring to assassinate Pannun. The indictment suggests the involvement of an Indian government employee, although specifics were not disclosed.

The incident underscores the complexities of diplomatic relations, visa regulations, and the challenges faced by journalists operating in foreign countries. It also highlights the ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and uphold the rule of law, as demonstrated by the joint efforts of US and Indian authorities in addressing threats posed by individuals like Pannun.