France raises issue of notice to journalist; India has shared its position, says Kwatra

India conveyed to the French side that the issue is about “compliance with the rules and regulations of the country”, indicating that it is not related to her journalism.

“This has been brought to our attention by the French side both prior to the visit (of President Macron) and during the visit,” Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra said at a media briefing.

He said the matter is being handled by the relevant government department.

The Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) that operates under the Union Home Ministry issued a notice to Dougnac, asking her to explain why her Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card should not be withdrawn.

Kwatra said the frame of reference to look at the matter is “compliance with the rules and regulations of the country”. “I do not think this has got anything else to do with other aspects of journalism etc. The principal issue is whether the person is compliant with the rules and regulations of the state under which they come,” he said.

Kwatra said the Indian side shared its position on the matter with the French side and it appreciated the “frame of reference in which we are looking at this”.

Dougnac has been based in New Delhi since 2001 and works for French newspaper La Croix.

It is learnt that the notice was issued to her on January 18 and she has been given 15 days time to respond to it.

Dougnac confirmed receiving the notice. She said, “I deny all allegations and imputations made therein against me and my conduct. India is my home, a country which I deeply love and respect, and I have never engaged in any acts that are in any manner prejudicial to Indian interests as is being alleged.”

She added, “There is a legal process to deal with such matters, with which I shall cooperate.”

Meanwhile, a group of foreign correspondents based in India expressed concern over the notice issued to Dougnac. “She has cooperated with the relevant authorities in an effort to remove any misunderstanding. While foreign correspondents have grappled with increased visa restrictions in recent years, our colleagues with OCI status have faced particular difficulty from new and often opaque administrative burdens, hampering their ability to work as journalists. We hope her case is resolved quickly, as it affects not only her livelihood but also her family life. We request the Indian authorities to facilitate the vital work of a free press in line with India’s democratic traditions,” it said.