Modi's Foreign Visits Increasingly Draw Global Criticism Over Media Avoidance and Personal Promotion

Al Jazeera Report: Indian Prime Minister Continues to Avoid Questions from Foreign Journalists

NEW DELHI: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's overseas visits, often viewed as opportunities for personal promotion, are increasingly attracting international criticism instead of being celebrated as diplomatic successes. According to global media outlets and prominent journalists, these foreign trips have become platforms for domestic and international image-building, while Modi continues to avoid facing tough questions from independent and international media.

Third Major Incident of Avoiding the Media in Less Than Two Months

According to a recent report by Al Jazeera, Modi's repeated refusal to engage with journalists during international visits has become a growing concern worldwide. The report highlights several recent incidents:

• New Zealand Visit: During an official visit, a local New Zealand journalist publicly questioned why Modi refused to hold a press conference or answer questions from the media. It marked the third major instance in less than two months in which Modi avoided the international press.
• Australia Visit: Prior to the New Zealand trip, Modi also declined to answer questions from Australian journalists during his visit to Australia.
• Norway Visit: Earlier, during his visit to Norway, an attempt by journalist Hege Lyng to ask Modi a direct question drew widespread international media attention.
• Press Freedom Index: Al Jazeera noted that India ranked 157th out of 180 countries in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index, reflecting growing concerns over press freedom in the country.

Indian Journalists and Opposition Criticize 'Godi Media'

The issue has also sparked criticism within India. Veteran Indian journalist Sangeeta Barooah Pisharoty stated that the "Godi Media" system developed over the past eleven years is now facing increasing international scrutiny, with its true nature becoming visible to the world.

Indian journalist Ghazala Wahab also criticized the Modi government, saying:

"From curbing press freedom to undermining minority rights under the cover of democracy, every negative practice has been allowed to flourish."

Meanwhile, Indian opposition leaders have argued that Modi's continued refusal to answer questions from both domestic and international journalists reflects a serious lack of accountability and democratic values.