Norwegian journalist Helle Lyng has found herself at the centre of global attention after a video of her questioning Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Norway went viral.
The exchange took place in Oslo during a joint media appearance with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.
Who is Helle Lyng?
Helle Lyng is a commentator and journalist associated with the Oslo-based Norwegian newspaper Dagsavisen. She became widely discussed online after raising questions about press access during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Norway as part of his five-nation Europe tour.
Lyng later identified herself publicly on social media and defended her actions, saying journalists have a responsibility to question political leaders. According to reports, she also addressed allegations circulating online after the incident
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What happened during the Oslo press appearance
The incident took place after Modi and Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre delivered joint statements in Oslo. As the leaders began leaving the venue, Lyng was heard asking, “Prime Minister Modi, why don’t you take some questions from the freest press in the world?”
A video of the moment quickly spread across social media platforms and triggered political reactions both in India and abroad. Lyng later posted on X, “Prime minister of India, Narendra Modi, would not take my question, I was not expecting him to", as per News18.
She further wrote, “Norway has the number one spot on the World Press Freedom Index, India is at 157th, competing with Palestine, the Emirates & Cuba. It is our job to question the powers we cooperate with.”
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Exchange continued at the MEA briefing
The issue resurfaced during a later briefing involving Indian officials. Reports said Lyng questioned Indian representatives on issues related to trust, media freedom and human rights.
Responding to the queries, Indian diplomat Sibi George defended India’s democratic system and media environment. He said, according to News18, “We believe in equality; We believe in human rights. If anyone whose rights are violated, they have the right to go to court. We are proud to be a democracy.”
The incident has since sparked wider debate online around media access and political communication during international visits.
