French Journalist Says India Is Forcing Her to Leave

A French journalist, Vanessa Dougnac, with over two decades of work in India and married to an Indian man, faces potential expulsion. Last month, Indian authorities accused her of writing articles harmful to the state, prompting a notice to justify retaining her Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card. This card, essential for living and working in India, is now under threat. Dougnac, feeling unfairly accused and unable to work amid the proceedings, expressed her inability to continue residing in India.

She sees the OCI status review as part of a broader government effort to stifle dissent within the OCI community. Though she's contesting the allegations, the prolonged decision-making process compels her to leave. The Indian federal home ministry and foreign ministry haven't commented.

Having lived and worked in India for 23 years, Dougnac, who arrived 25 years ago, holds an OCI card through her marriage. The card provides foreign citizens with a lifelong multiple-entry visa. French officials raised her case during President Macron's recent visit to India. India's Foreign Secretary, Vinay Kwatra, emphasized adherence to rules when questioned about the matter. The situation reflects broader concerns about freedom of expression and dissent in India.

फ्रांसीसी पत्रकार का कहना है कि भारत उसे छोड़ने के लिए मजबूर कर रहा है