India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Saturday defended the government’s right to grant—or withdraw—visas after opposition politicians alleged that more than 100 foreign invitees to the Bharat Summit in Hyderabad were denied entry or had clearances cancelled at the last minute. Responding to media questions, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said: “Visa matters are sovereign functions of any country. Decisions are taken in accordance with India’s laws and security assessments.” His comments came after Norwegian journalist Helle Lyng posted on X that her already-issued visa was revoked hours before departure. Organised by the Congress party and the Telangana government, the 13–14 November summit drew 1,000 delegates from 70 countries to debate democracy, climate and technology. Congress MPs claimed that instructions for cancellations originated with the Union Home Ministry, an allegation not independently verified. For global-mobility managers the controversy is a cautionary tale: even high-profile conferences can face sudden participant screening, potentially derailing speaker line-ups and networking plans. Corporates sending staff to politically sensitive events in India should ensure contingency speakers, virtual participation options and flexible ticket conditions. Meanwhile, analysts expect little immediate policy change, but the episode adds to perceptions of tighter scrutiny on activist journalists and NGOs seeking Indian visas.
Source: Reporter World News
