“When there is nothing to hide, there is nothing to fear. What happens to India’s image when the world sees a compromised PM panic and run from a few questions?” Rahul Gandhi said in a post on social media.
In the video, Norwegian journalist Helle Lyng Svendsen could be heard asking: “PM Modi, why don’t you take questions from the freest press in the world?”
The clip has also been shared by several Opposition leaders and social media users.
Indian Embassy issues clarification
Responding to the video shared by the journalist, the Indian Embassy in Norway issued a public reply on X, inviting her to attend an official media briefing.
“Dear Ms @HelleLyngSvends, the Embassy is organizing a press briefing on the Prime Minister’s visit this evening at 9:30 pm at Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel. You are most welcome to come and ask your questions there,” the embassy said.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was on Monday conferred with Norway’s highest civilian honour, the Grand Cross of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit, for his contribution in advancing the India-Norway relationship and his leadership. This is Prime Minister Modi’s 32nd international honour.
In a special ceremony, King Herald V of Norway conferred upon PM Modi the ‘Grand Cross of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit’.
The award is Norway’s highest honour bestowed on foreign Heads of Government, and is conferred in recognition of outstanding service in the interest of Norway and humankind.