White House strongly condemns harassment of journalist who questioned PM Modi; Internet says ‘shame’

The White House has taken a tough stand against online harassment targeting Wall Street Journal reporter Sabrina Siddiqui after she questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a joint press conference with President Joe Biden. The incident, dubbed “intense online harassment” by the Wall Street Journal, has drawn condemnation from top officials who stress the importance of upholding press freedom.

See also: Internet slams PM Modi’s US speech about discrimination and democracy in India

According to the Wall Street Journal, ever since Siddiqui raised his question on democracy in India, he has faced constant online harassment, especially from individuals within India. The newspaper further reported that his Muslim faith has also become a target of criticism and prejudice. When questioned about Siddiqui’s harassment, top official John Kirby expressed White House awareness of the reports and explicitly condemned harassment of any kind against journalists.

Mr. Kirby, who is the White House National Security Council coordinator for strategic communications, said, “This is unacceptable. And we condemn harassment of journalists anywhere under any circumstances. It is absolutely unacceptable. And it goes against the principles of democracy.” That’s the opposite of – you’re right – displayed during the state visit last week.”

Following Mr Kirby’s statement, the White House press secretary, Karin Jean-Pierre, said, “I want to reiterate a little bit of what John said – we’re definitely in the White House under this administration, we’re here for freedom.” Committed press, that’s why we had the press conference last week. So just want to remind people that’s why we had the press conference last week. Also, we certainly don’t want to intimidate or harass any journalist Condemn any attempt to do what is trying to do their job.”

Meanwhile, there are now several reactions on Twitter from India on the White House statement. Take a look at the reactions here.

The White House has taken a tough stand against online harassment targeting Wall Street Journal reporter Sabrina Siddiqui after she questioned Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a joint press conference with President Joe Biden. The incident, dubbed “intense online harassment” by the Wall Street Journal, has drawn condemnation from top officials who stress the importance of upholding press freedom.

See also: Internet slams PM Modi’s US speech about discrimination and democracy in India

According to the Wall Street Journal, ever since Siddiqui raised his question on democracy in India, he has faced constant online harassment, especially from individuals within India. The newspaper further reported that his Muslim faith has also become a target of criticism and prejudice. When questioned about Siddiqui’s harassment, top official John Kirby expressed White House awareness of the reports and explicitly condemned harassment of any kind against journalists.

Mr. Kirby, who is the White House National Security Council coordinator for strategic communications, said, “This is unacceptable. And we condemn harassment of journalists anywhere under any circumstances. It is absolutely unacceptable. And it goes against the principles of democracy.” That’s the opposite of – you’re right – displayed during the state visit last week.”

Following Mr Kirby’s statement, the White House press secretary, Karin Jean-Pierre, said, “I want to reiterate a little bit of what John said – we’re definitely in the White House under this administration, we’re here for freedom.” Committed press, that’s why we had the press conference last week. So just want to remind people that’s why we had the press conference last week. Also, we certainly don’t want to intimidate or harass any journalist Condemn any attempt to do what is trying to do their job.”

Meanwhile, there are now several reactions on Twitter from India on the White House statement. Take a look at the reactions here.