The response from the United States to allegations regarding the denial of visa renewal for Australian journalist Avani Dias by India was characterized by restraint, with US State Department Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel emphasizing India's autonomy in determining its visa policies. Patel refrained from expressing an opinion on India's visa policy, stating that it is the prerogative of the Indian government to address such matters. He reiterated the US government's broader perspective on the importance of a free press in upholding democratic principles but deferred to Indian authorities to provide specific clarifications.
Avani Dias, a prominent figure as the South Asia Bureau Chief of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), made headlines when she departed India on April 19, alleging that her visa extension had been refused due to the nature of her reporting, which was perceived to have "crossed a line." Dias claimed that her visa extension was only granted following intervention from the Australian government and that she was informed of this extension just before her departure.
However, Indian government sources contested Dias's assertions, describing them as inaccurate and misleading. They clarified that Dias had violated visa rules during her professional activities but was still granted an extension to cover the upcoming general elections. The sources emphasized that Dias chose to leave India voluntarily, despite holding a valid visa and having an approved extension until the end of June. Additionally, they refuted Dias's claim that she was prevented from covering the elections, stating that she had the necessary permissions in place.
Overall, the situation underscored the complexities surrounding visa regulations, freedom of the press, and diplomatic interactions between countries. The differing perspectives presented by Dias and the Indian government highlighted the need for thorough examination and clarification of the facts surrounding the case.
