Scribes’ visa issue: China issues serious warning to India

Terming as “petty” the denial of permission for an extended stay to three Chinese journalists based in India, the Global Times said, “No official reason was given for the rejection of the visa renewals. Speculation is swirling that India is taking revenge against China for the latter’s opposition to India joining the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG). If New Delhi is really taking revenge due to the NSG membership issue, there will be serious consequences,” in an editorial titled India’s expulsion of reporters is a petty act.

The three Chinese journalists, Delhi-based Bureau Chief Wu Qiang and two reporters in Mumbai — Tang Lu and Ma Qiang, representing the state-run Xinhua news agency were denied permission for the extended stay. Their visas are expiring at the end of July and all the three had sought extension by a few months till their successors arrive. 

“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. On the visa issue this time, we should take action to display our reaction. We at least should make a few Indians feel Chinese visas are also not easy to get,” said the editorial. 

However, the editorial also pitched for maintaining friendly Sino-India ties. “China should stick to a friendly strategy toward India, as we believe bilateral friendship is in the interests of India as well,” it said.