China warns India with “serious consequences” for denying visa to journalists

One of the top 10 countries in terms of press censorship, China’s state-owned media outlet, Global Times, has accused India of denying visa extension to three Chinese journalists. The country has also warned India of “serious consequences” for its actions today, July 25.

“Complaints about difficulties of acquiring an Indian visa have also been heard from other Chinese who deal with India. In contrast, it’s much easier for Indians to get a Chinese visa,” Global Times wrote adding, “We at least should make a few Indians feel Chinese visas are also not easy to get.”

Chinese news agency Xinhua‘s Delhi-based Bureau Chief, Wu Qiang and Mumbai-based reporters Tang Lu and Ma Qiang have been denied extension of visa, owing to which they’ll have to leave the country by July 31.

While China alleged that India’s move comes as a reaction to China blocking the country’s NSG bid, authorities here have stated illegal activities like impersonating people to gain access to restricted areas is the reason for denying visa extension. Hindustan Times reported that Mumbai-based journalists visited Karnataka-based Tibetan camps late last year without permissions. According to the report, foreigners and foreign aid agencies can’t visit Tibetan settlements in India without a protected area permit (PAP), which is issued by the Union home ministry.