NEW DELHI: The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday sharply criticised sections of the Norwegian media over questions related to press freedom in India, asserting that foreign observers often misunderstand the country’s scale and democratic framework.
During a press briefing, MEA Secretary (West) Sibi George responded firmly to a journalist’s query, pointing to the vast size and diversity of India’s media landscape.
‘People Have No Understanding of India’s Scale’
George said India’s media ecosystem is far larger and more dynamic than many international critics realise.
“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,” he said.
He further criticised reliance on reports published by certain non-governmental organisations.
“People have no understanding. They read, you know, one or two news reports published by some godforsaken, ignorant NGOs and then come and ask questions,” George added.
Constitution Guarantees Rights, Says MEA
Defending India’s democratic system, the MEA official stressed that the Constitution safeguards citizens’ rights and provides legal remedies in cases of violations.
“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,” he said.
India Proud of Democratic Values
George also highlighted India’s early adoption of universal voting rights for women after Independence, contrasting it with several other nations where women received voting rights much later.
“In 1947, we gave the freedom to vote for our women. We together won the freedom together. Many countries, I know, the voting right for women came after several decades after India gave that freedom,” he said.
He added that India’s democratic system reflects its commitment to equality and human rights.
“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,” George said.
