Who is Helle Lyng, the Norway journalist who wanted to ask PM Modi a question?

Lyng also defended her decision to raise questions publicly during the Oslo visit, saying that in Norway it is customary for visiting leaders to take at least a few media questions during official appearances. She noted that no such opportunity was given during PM Modi’s Norway engagements.

The controversy soon spilled into India’s political arena, with leaders from both the ruling BJP and the opposition Congress weighing in on the exchange. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi shared the video online and criticised PM Modi over the episode, claiming the prime minister appeared uncomfortable facing questions from journalists.

The BJP, however, dismissed the criticism and accused the opposition of amplifying a routine diplomatic moment to target the government.