Norwegian Newspaper Publishes Controversial Cartoon Depicting Prime Minister Narendra Modi

Oslo, Norway, May 20,AIMA Media News : During Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Norway, a prominent local newspaper, 'Aftenposten' sparked a major controversy by publishing a cartoon depicting Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a "snake charmer." Indians and netizens alike have expressed severe outrage over this image. In the satirical illustration published in 'Aftenposten', a fuel pump is depicted emerging from a basket, resembling a snake. The cartoon portrays Prime Minister Modi sitting in the 'Padmasana' (lotus position) and playing a flute to it.

This cartoon was featured alongside an opinion piece written by Frank Rossavik, titled "A Clever And Slightly Annoying Man." The portrayal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a snake charmer has drawn massive criticism across social media platforms. Many critics have slammed the image as racist, arguing that it reflects colonial-era stereotypes.

Meanwhile, during a media interaction held in Oslo the capital city of Norway a Norwegian female journalist raised questions regarding press freedom and human rights in India. Prime Minister Modi's decision to sidestep these questions without providing a direct response has also become a subject of international discussion.


--- M Venkata T Reddy, News Editor and Investigative Journalist