‘Technical issue, no other problem’: Afghan Minister Muttaqi plays down exclusion of women journos from press meet

“While diplomatic premises may claim protection under the Vienna Convention, that cannot justify blatant gender discrimination in press access on Indian soil,” the Editors Guild said.

Afghanistan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi at a press conference Sunday with women journalists present. He had faced backlash after his initial press meet reportedly barred women journalists, prompting outrage from media bodies, political leaders, and civil society. (Express Photo by Divya A)

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) distanced itself from the controversy, clarifying it had no involvement in organizing the Friday event. However, the Editors Guild maintained that the discriminatory act should not have gone unchallenged, regardless of MEA’s role.

The IWPC urged the Indian government to ensure that such gender-based exclusions do not recur, calling it a serious affront to press freedom and women’s rights.

Political reactions were swift and sharp. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of failing to stand up for women, saying, “Your silence in the face of such discrimination exposes the emptiness of your slogans on Nari Shakti.”

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra demanded a public clarification from the PM, while TMC MP Mahua Moitra said the incident had dishonoured every Indian woman. Former Union Minister P Chidambaram criticised male journalists for not walking out in solidarity with their excluded colleagues.