The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday defended India’s democratic framework, constitutional values, diversity and human rights record during a media interaction in Oslo held alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Norway.
The exchange turned tense after a journalist repeatedly questioned why the world should trust India on issues related to press freedom and human rights. MEA Secretary (West) Sibi George responded by pointing to India’s Constitution, democratic structure and electoral system.
George said India’s Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to all citizens and provides legal remedies in cases involving violations of rights. He also highlighted that women in India received voting rights at Independence.
“We have a constitution which guarantees the rights of the people, fundamental rights of the people. We have equal rights for the women of our country, which is very important. In 1947, we gave the freedom to vote for our women. We together, we won the freedom together and they won itself,” George said.
He added, “Many countries I know, the voting right for women came after several decades after India gave that freedom. Because we believe in equality, we believe in human rights. And what is the best example of human rights? The right to change government, the right to vote. And that is what is happening in India. We are so proud of that.”
During the interaction, George repeatedly asked the journalist not to interrupt him while answering questions.
“Let me answer the question, please don’t interrupt me. You asked a question–this is my press conference. You asked why should a country trust India, let me answer that question,” he said.
The MEA official also defended India’s media ecosystem, saying the scale and diversity of the country are often misunderstood internationally. He pointed to the large number of television channels and daily news coverage across multiple Indian languages.
“You know how many stories are up here. We have how many breaking news coming every day in the evening. At least 200 TV channels in Delhi alone, in English language, in Hindi language and multiple languages. People have no understanding of the scale of India. People have no understanding,” George said.
In another remark during the exchange, George criticised what he described as selective reporting based on NGO publications.
“They read, you know, one or two news reports published by some godforsaken, ignorant NGOs and then come and ask questions,” he said.
George further stated that India remains committed to the rule of law and follows international norms.
“India is a country which believes in the rule of law. We have always been following rules wherever it is. We play by the book. That is India’s reputation,” he said.
Responding to another question on why the world should trust India, George referred to India’s role during global crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and spoke about the country’s civilisational contributions.
“You look around and you see an India connect everywhere in the world. India has the numbers you see on your phones–it originated in India. Shoonya, zero, originated in India. Chess originated in India. So we are proud of that civilisation. Yoga, which the world admires today, originated in India. India had epics and books,” he said.
The exchange took place during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Norway as part of India’s diplomatic engagements in Europe.
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