Was French Journo Vanessa Dougnac Forced To Exit India? Read Statement

French Journalist Vanessa Dougnac who was residing in India for over two decades alleged that she was forced to leave the country for allegedly breaching certain regulations. The writer for French newspaper La Croix was issued a notice in January, threatening to withdraw her Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) card, as her articles were allegedly "malicious" and harming "the interests of the sovereignty and integrity of India". Finding herself entangled in a bureaucratic web, Dougnac left India on February 17, saying it was not her choice. 

"Today, I am leaving India, the country where I came 25 years ago as a student, and where I have worked for 23 years as a journalist. The place where I married, raised my son, and which I call my home," Dougnac said in a statement, adding that she could not wait for a legal outcome any longer.  

The Notice And Indian Response

The Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) operating under the Union Home Ministry issued the notice to Vanessa Dougnac on January 18. The issue cited that her OCI card would be withdrawn, citing that she was "undertaking journalistic activities without any special permission as required under Citizenship Act 1955 and rules/regulations issued thereunder." 

The MHA notice cites various reasons for the potential cancellation of Dougnac's OCI card. These reasons span from alleged "malicious" reporting creating a "negative perception" of India to infractions such as inciting disorder, travelling to restricted areas without permission, and reporting on neighbouring countries.

On Republic Day this year, Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra clarified in a media briefing that India's stance revolves around ensuring compliance with the rules and regulations of the country. "People are free to do what they are accredited to do in a given space. But here I think the principal issue is whether the person is compliant with the rules and regulations of the state under which they come," he had said.

The Indian Foreign Secretary disclosed that the French authorities were apprised of India's position on the matter, and there was an acknowledgement of the "frame of reference" within which the issue is being scrutinized. He further mentioned that the relevant government department is actively handling the situation.

International Concern And Journalistic Implications

In a show of solidarity, around 30 India-based foreign correspondents signed an open letter expressing "deep concern" at the MHA notice to Dougnac. Describing her as a "highly regarded" senior journalist covering South Asia, the letter refutes suggestions that the potential sanction is a result of her past reporting.

With increased visa restrictions in recent years, individuals with OCI status encounter specific difficulties, especially due to new and often opaque administrative requirements. The introduction of regulations in 2021 further complicates matters, as individuals with OCI cards must now seek a permit to engage in journalism, research, or missionary activities in India.

The foreign correspondents, representing prestigious media outlets such as Le Monde, The New York Times, The Washington Post, France 24, The Economist, The Guardian, and France Télévisions, express their hope for a swift resolution to Dougnac's case. They emphasize the potential impact on her livelihood and family life, urging Indian authorities to facilitate the vital work of a free press in alignment with India's democratic traditions.

The diplomatic channels between France and India have been active in addressing this issue. Meanwhile, Indian authorities have assured that the matter is being handled by the relevant department with due diligence.