Norwegian journalist Helle Lyng says Instagram, Facebook accounts suspended after Modi row

Norwegian journalist Helle Lyng has drawn widespread attention after questioning Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a joint media appearance with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre in Oslo.

A video shared online showed Lyng asking Modi why he does not take questions from what she described as “the freest press in the world” as the Indian leader concluded the event.

The exchange quickly gained traction on social media, sparking debate over press freedom, democratic values, and media access.

Following the incident, Lyng said her Instagram and Facebook accounts had been suspended. In a post on X, she stated that she was unable to access both platforms and that her responses to followers would be delayed while she sought to restore the accounts.

She later shared a screenshot indicating that her Instagram account had been suspended, with a notice stating she had 180 days to appeal before permanent deactivation. Meta has not publicly confirmed the reason behind the suspension, and it remains unclear whether the action was connected to the online attention surrounding the Oslo incident.

The controversy began after Lyng, who identifies herself as a journalist with Norwegian newspaper Dagsavisen, posted a clip from the media event. In the caption, she referred to Norway’s top ranking on the World Press Freedom Index and contrasted it with India’s position, saying journalists have a duty to question political leaders.

The incident also triggered questions during a subsequent media briefing held by India’s Ministry of External Affairs. Responding to queries related to human rights and press freedom, senior Indian diplomat Sibi George rejected allegations of rights violations and defended India’s constitutional commitment to justice, liberty, and freedom of expression.

The episode has since generated extensive discussion online, with supporters and critics debating the role of journalists, political accountability, and freedom of the press in democratic societies.