Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has accused the Centre of blocking the participation of more than 100 international speakers at the Bharat Summit in Hyderabad, alleging that their entry into India was denied or their visas cancelled despite receiving clearance from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
In a post on X, Tharoor said he learnt upon reaching Hyderabad that 115 of the 315 speakers cleared by the MEA had either been refused entry into India or had their visas cancelled, allegedly on the instructions of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
“What a shame that a proud democracy has become so insecure that it must stifle any voices it fears will be critical!” Tharoor wrote.
He added that the decision was particularly unfortunate because the conference was nearing its conclusion, leaving little scope to reverse the restrictions and facilitate the participation of those affected.
The Congress leader also asked under which provision of law the government had taken the step.
The allegations come amid reports of foreign delegates being prevented from attending the two-day Bharat Summit, which began in Hyderabad on November 13.
According to a report, 113 of the 315 speakers cleared by the MEA were denied entry, with some visas reportedly revoked retrospectively. The publication quoted sources close to the organisers.
One of those affected was Norwegian journalist Helle Lyng Svendsen, who alleged that her Indian visa was cancelled shortly before she was scheduled to travel to Hyderabad. She had been invited to participate in a discussion on media, press freedom and democracy. Lyng claimed she had received both a visa and political clearance before being informed that she could not travel to India.
The Centre has not responded to the allegations so far.
What Is The Bharat Summit?
The second edition of the Bharat Summit, organised in Hyderabad, has brought together nearly 1,000 delegates from around 70 countries, including international policymakers, progressive political leaders, intellectuals and experts.
The November 13-14 event is hosting discussions on the emerging global order, India’s strategic response, cooperative federalism and electoral integrity. Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge are also participating in the summit.
The summit also aims to establish a global think tank called ‘Our World Institute’ and create a platform connecting the Global South and Global North.
Bureau Report
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