‘Godforsaken, ignorant NGOs’: Indian diplomat rebukes reporter over questions on India’s rights record

A tense exchange unfolded during the Ministry of External Affairs briefing in Norway on Monday after a Norwegian journalist repeatedly interrupted Indian officials and questioned India’s record on press freedom, minority rights and human rights.

Responding sharply, Sibi George defended India’s democratic system and accused critics of relying on selective reports from “ignorant NGOs” without understanding the country’s scale and diversity.

“You know how many stories are up here [in India]. We have a lot of breaking news coming every day in the evening. At least 200 TV channels in Delhi alone, in English, Hindi and multiple languages. People have no understanding of the scale of India,” George said.

“They read one or two news reports published by some godforsaken, ignorant NGOs and then come and ask questions,” he added.

George also cited India’s constitutional guarantees and democratic institutions while rejecting the allegations raised during the briefing. He said the Constitution ensured fundamental rights for all citizens and provided legal remedies in cases of violations.

Highlighting women’s rights, George noted that India granted women voting rights immediately after Independence in 1947, earlier than many countries.

“We have a Constitution which guarantees the rights of the people, fundamental rights of the people. We have equal rights for the women of our country, which is very important,” he said.

“What is the best example of human rights? The right to change government, the right to vote. And that is what is happening in India. We are so proud of that,” George added.

The exchange took place during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ongoing Europe tour. At one point, the journalist briefly walked out of the briefing room before later returning.