France Raises Concerns Over Possible Revocation of OCI Card of French Journalist Vanessa Dougnac

France has brought up the issue of the possible revocation of the Overseas Citizen of India card and subsequent expulsion of French journalist Vanessa Dougnac during bilateral meetings with India. This matter was discussed during President Emmanuel Macron’s visit as the chief guest for the Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi.

Foreign journalists based in India have now joined forces in support of Dougnac and are urging the Indian government to uphold the freedom of the press in line with democratic traditions.

The accusations against Dougnac include spreading negative perceptions of India through her alleged malicious reporting, allegations which she firmly denies.

In response to queries during a press conference on Friday, foreign secretary Vinay Mohan Kawatra confirmed that France had raised this issue prior to Macron’s visit and during discussions held in India.

Dougnac, who writes for the conservative French weekly Le Point and the Catholic newspaper La Croix, was issued a two-week notice by India’s home ministry on January 19, with regards to the possible revocation of her OCI card due to visa violations. She has until February 2 to respond, after which a final decision will be made.

In a statement, Dougnac strongly refuted all allegations made against her and her conduct, emphasizing that she considers India her home and deeply loves and respects the country. She called for her privacy to be respected during this challenging time.