Avani Dias, the ABC News South Asia bureau chief, faced challenges with the Indian government regarding her reporting on the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar last year. Following an episode covering this topic, which was blocked on YouTube in India, Dias was informed of the denial of her routine visa extension by the Indian government, just days before she was due to leave the country.
Despite efforts from Australian diplomats and Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong, the Indian government eventually renewed Dias' visa but only for a short two-month period. Dias expressed frustration and discomfort, noting that the Narendra Modi government's actions had made it difficult for her to perform her job effectively in India. The crackdown on international media reporting on the Canadian killing, ahead of the general election, further highlighted the challenges faced by journalists like Dias in India.
The ABC crew, including Dias, encountered pressure from Indian authorities during their investigation, with questioning from criminal intelligence officials and being blocked from filming certain events in Punjab. The Australian broadcaster, ABC, stood by Dias' reporting, emphasizing the importance of independent journalism and freedom of the press in India and globally. Despite the challenges faced, Dias will continue to cover the Indian election for ABC News and will soon join the Four Corners team.