This has sparked a controversy after female journalists were reportedly denied a chance to cover a press conference where the Taliban Foreign Minister of Afghanistan was present when he visited India. The event sparked anger among opposition parties, media practitioners, and social media users. The AAP leader, Anurag Dhanda, has made strong remarks against the central government, yet such an incident still occurred on Indian soil.
Anurag Dhanda Condemns Taliban-Style Order
During the visit of the Taliban Foreign Minister to India, a press conference was arranged where women journalists were not allowed to participate. This action received harsh criticism from several political and media personalities. The in-charge of AAP’s national press, Anurag Dhanda, took to social media, saying it was time for the central government to take action on this. He said that India cannot give Taliban-like orders to take place on its soil and called on PM Modi to stand up rather than demonstrate submissiveness.
Opposition Raises Questions Over the Incident
The incident also drew criticism from several opposition parties, including the Congress. They wondered how a restriction like this could be imposed in a democratic country like India. The government faced criticism for violating freedom of the press and women’s rights.
Government and Taliban Respond to the Controversy
India responded to the mounting criticism by its Ministry of External Affairs that it had nothing to do with the issuance or enforcement of any such restriction. In the meantime, the political leader of the Taliban, Suhail Shaheen, refuted the accusations, saying that no female journalist was allowed to attend the event. He said the Taliban respects women journalists in Afghanistan, and these were false and misleading reports. He further stated that the leaders of the Taliban, such as the Foreign Minister, meet with female journalists frequently.
Public Outrage on Social Media
Citizens and journalists posted their anger at the situation on social media. It was dubbed by many as an assault on freedom of speech and the equality of women. The event also rekindled the argument on the diplomatic ties and the gender rights and press freedom position of India.
