Journalist’s Allegation of Being Asked to Leave India Deemed Misleading by Sources

Avani Dias serves as the South Asia bureau chief for ABC News. According to a senior Australian journalist, Dias had to leave India suddenly on the day of voting for the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections as her visa extension was allegedly denied. However, sources from the Union government have disputed these claims, stating that they are “not correct, misleading and mischievous.”

The sources assert that Dias had violated visa rules, but was still given an assurance that her visa would be extended to cover the elections. Dias shared her experience on social media, stating that the Modi Government informed her that her visa extension would be denied, citing that her reporting “crossed a line.” Despite Australian Government intervention, she claims to have received a mere two-month extension less than 24 hours before her departure.

Additionally, she mentioned that her election accreditation was allegedly delayed due to an Indian Ministry directive, leading to her departure on the first day of voting. In response to Dias’ claims, a source stated that her contention of not being allowed to cover the elections and being forced to leave the country is unfounded. The source maintained that Dias violated visa rules during her professional activities.

Despite this, the source confirmed that on Dias’ request, she was assured that her visa would be extended for the general elections, as her previous visa was valid until April 20, 2024.