India Can Address Its Visa Policy—US Amidst Journalist's Claim

The US stated that each country has the right to decide who enters its borders, including journalists. In response to claims by Australian journalist Avani Dias that her visa renewal was denied by India, the US declined to comment, asserting India's authority over its visa policy.

Dias alleged that she was forced to leave India abruptly because her reporting had crossed a line, but Indian officials disputed her claims for Visa Denial, stating that she left due to personal reasons and not visa issues. The Australian Journalist Claim also mentions that she was not allowed to cover India's general elections, but officials say she left to meet a job deadline in Australia.

Amidst this, Dias's documentary on the killing of pro-Khalistan activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada was removed from YouTube India. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's remarks about possible Indian government involvement in Nijjar's killing stirred controversy.

During a press briefing, Vedant Patel - US State Department spokesperson, declined to comment on an Indian government investigation into an alleged assassination plot against Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, deferring to the Department of Justice.

Pannun, an India-designated terrorist, holds American and Canadian citizenship. Nikhil Gupta, an Indian national, has been charged by the US Justice Department with attempting to hire a hitman to assassinate Pannun. The indictment also suggested that an Indian government employee was involved in recruiting Gupta for the plot.

The situation highlights the complexity of international relations, visa policies, and the challenges journalists encounter when covering sensitive issues. It emphasises the vital role of a free press in democracy, while also highlighting the necessity for transparent and accountable governance.