PM Modi’s Worst Record : ‘0’ Press Conference in 12 Years - India's Debate #shorts

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Norway, a moment involving a Norwegian journalist unexpectedly became a major political and media discussion in India. At a joint media appearance in Oslo, journalist Helle Lyng called out to Modi, asking why he does not take questions from “the freest press in the world.” Modi did not respond and left the venue as the event concluded. A short video clip of the exchange spread rapidly across Indian and international social media platforms and immediately reignited criticism that the Indian prime minister rarely participates in open press conferences. The incident became especially significant because critics in India have for years argued that Modi avoids unscripted questioning from journalists. Since becoming prime minister in 2014, he has mostly communicated through speeches, carefully selected interviews, social media messaging, and programs such as Mann Ki Baat, rather than holding frequent free-form press conferences where reporters can ask unrestricted questions. Opposition parties and many independent journalists used the Norway clip to argue that democratic leaders should regularly face direct questioning from the press, particularly on difficult political and economic issues. The controversy also triggered intense reactions on social media. Many users praised the Norwegian journalist for publicly asking a question that Indian journalists rarely get an opportunity to ask directly. Others criticized her, saying the question was disrespectful or politically motivated. Reports also mentioned that the journalist received abusive online messages after the clip went viral. As a result, what began as a brief moment during a foreign visit quickly turned into a broader national discussion about media access, political accountability, and the role of journalism in Indian democracy. Subscribe to FactTechz