Mr. Modi saying to Mr. Biden — “Na Press Conference karoonga, Na karne doonga” :Jairam Ramesh on x
During the 18th G20 Summit held in New Delhi under India’s presidency from September 9-10, US President Joe Biden took the opportunity to discuss pressing issues related to human rights and press freedom in his bilateral meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
“I emphasized the paramount importance of upholding human rights, supporting the indispensable role of civil society, and preserving a free press while jointly striving towards a robust and prosperous nation with Mr. Modi. We accomplished substantial and meaningful work together,” President Biden declared during a press conference held in Vietnam.
Notably, after the conclusion of the G20 Summit in New Delhi, President Biden did not conduct a press conference in India; instead, official statements were issued.
In response to President Biden’s press conference and his comments in Vietnam, the opposition Congress party took the opportunity to criticize Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not holding a press conference.
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh conveyed his perspective via Twitter, drawing attention to the memorable words used during the exchange between Mr. Modi and Mr. Biden: “Na Press Conference karoonga, Na karne doonga,”
“I will not hold a press conference, nor will I let you hold one.”
“Mr. Modi’s refusal to conduct a press conference,” remarked Jairam Ramesh, “has not had any impact. Mr. Biden is echoing the same sentiments in Vietnam as he conveyed face-to-face to Mr. Modi in India—emphasizing the importance of respecting human rights, the role of civil society, and a free press.”
Previously, Jairam Ramesh had alleged that the Indian government did not permit reporters to pose questions to PM Modi and President Biden after their bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the G20 India Summit, despite repeated requests.
“President Biden’s team has indicated that despite numerous requests, India did not grant permission for the media to ask questions to him and Prime Minister Modi following their bilateral interaction,” Ramesh noted. “President Biden will now entertain inquiries from the accompanying media in Vietnam on September 11th. This development is not surprising and reflects a certain approach to democracy, characteristic of Modi-style governance.”
The discussions between President Biden and Prime Minister Modi have garnered significant attention due to their focus on critical issues concerning human rights and press freedom, eliciting responses both within India and on the global stage.
