“Totally wrong…violation of human rights..”: Karnataka Minister on absence of women journalists at Afghan FM Muttaqi’s presser
(source : ANI) ( Photo Credit : ani)
In Hubballi, Karnataka, state minister HK Patil took a strong stand after reports that women journalists were barred from a press conference held by Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqui at the Afghan Embassy in New Delhi last Friday.
Patil said the exclusion was a “violation of human rights” and “totally wrong.” He warned that anyone who tries to keep women reporters out of such events “must be punished.” The minister’s comments came as part of a wave of criticism over the Taliban‑dominated Afghan delegation’s first high‑profile visit to India since 2021.
Muttaqui, who has been touring India from October 9 to 16, is the first senior Afghan official to meet Indian leaders since the Taliban seized power. The press conference, meant to highlight the delegation’s outreach, drew criticism when the Afghan Embassy reportedly shut doors to female journalists.
Shiv Sena MP Priyanka Chaturvedi echoed Patil’s concerns. She called the exclusion “unfortunate” and said it reflected the Taliban’s “mindset.” Chaturvedi urged India’s Ministry of External Affairs to speak with the Taliban, pointing out that such practices run counter to India’s constitutional guarantees of press freedom and gender equality.
Both Indian officials highlighted that keeping women reporters out of diplomatic events is shameful and incompatible with India’s values. They called for more consistent protection of journalists worldwide, especially in countries where women’s rights are under threat.
Source: aninews
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