Journalist Helle Lyng Says Questions on PM Modi's Media Policy Are Gaining Global Attention: ‘The Impact Is Spreading’

Norwegian journalist Helle Lyng, who previously questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi's approach to media interactions during his Norway visit, says similar questions are now being raised in Australia and New Zealand. Lyng believes the discussion on media access and press conferences is expanding internationally, calling it evidence that "the impact is spreading."Norwegian journalist Helle Lyng, whose question on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's media engagement during his visit to Norway drew widespread attention, has said the debate has now expanded beyond Europe. Reacting to recent questions posed by journalists in Australia and New Zealand about Modi's media policy, Lyng said the conversation is no longer confined to a single country. "The impact is spreading," Lyng remarked, suggesting that journalists across democracies are increasingly interested in how world leaders engage with the media. From Norway to the Indo-Pacific Lyng first entered the spotlight after asking why Prime Minister Modi rarely participates in open press conferences where journalists can ask unscripted questions. The exchange generated significant discussion in India and abroad, with supporters and critics offering sharply contrasting views on the Prime Minister's communication style. More recently, journalists in Australia and New Zealand have raised similar questions during official interactions involving Indian representatives, keeping the debate alive. Growing International Interest According to Lyng, the recurrence of similar questions demonstrates that international media organizations are paying closer attention to how governments communicate with journalists. She argued that press conferences remain an important democratic institution, allowing reporters to ask direct questions on behalf of the public. At the same time, she acknowledged that every country adopts its own communication strategy based on political and administrative priorities. Government's Position The Indian government has consistently defended Prime Minister Modi's communication model, pointing to his extensive public outreach through speeches, interviews, social media platforms and his monthly Mann Ki Baat radio programme. Officials have argued that the Prime Minister regularly engages with citizens through multiple channels and that communication should not be measured solely by the number of formal press conferences. Government representatives have also highlighted Modi's participation in international media interactions during overseas visits. Debate Continues The issue has remained a subject of political discussion in India for several years. Opposition parties have repeatedly urged the Prime Minister to hold more open-ended press conferences, while the BJP maintains that Modi's communication methods are transparent and effective in reaching millions of people directly. The latest comments from Lyng have added an international dimension to that ongoing debate. Social Media Reaction Lyng's remarks have attracted attention on social media, where users expressed mixed reactions. Some welcomed the continued discussion on media accessibility and accountability, while others defended the Prime Minister's communication style, arguing that digital platforms have transformed how leaders engage with the public. The exchange has once again highlighted differing expectations of political communication in the digital era. Looking Ahead As India's diplomatic engagements continue across the globe, questions about media access and public communication are likely to remain part of international interactions. Whether through formal press conferences or digital outreach, the broader discussion on how political leaders communicate with citizens and journalists is expected to continue both within India and internationally.