Norwegian newspaper faces backlash over racist cartoon of PM Modi

A Norwegian newspaper, Aftenposten, faced strong criticism after publishing a cartoon  showing Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a snake charmer. The cartoon was reportedly published after a controversy during PM Modi’s visit to Norway, where a journalist questioned him about not taking media questions.

The illustrations showed PM Modi with a fuel pipe shaped like a snake and was used in an opinion article titled ‘A sneaky and slightly annoying man’. Many people on social media called the cartoon racist and offensive, saying it repeated old colonial stereotypes about India.

Online criticism and public reaction

Several users on social media criticised the newspaper for using the ‘snake charmer’ image. Many reportedly said the cartoon was disrespectful to India and promoted outdated Western stereotypes. Users also pointed out that PM Modi had earlier spoken about how India was once viewed as a land of ‘snake charmers’ but is now recognised for technology and innovation. 

A similar controversy had happened in 2022 when a Spanish newspaper reportedly used ‘snake charmer’ imagery while reporting on India’s economy. Some users also said the cartoon ignored India’s growth in areas such as technology, business, and global diplomacy. Others argued that international media should avoid using cultural stereotypes while commenting on political issues. 

The controversy also restarted discussions about freedom of expression and media ethics. While some defended the cartoon as political satire, others argued that criticism should not include racial or cultural stereotypes.

What happened during the Norway press briefing? 

The controversy started during a joint media appearance in Norway when journalist Helle Lyng called out to PM Modi asking why he did not take questions from the press. There was no sign that PM Modi heard or responded to the remark, but videos of the moment quickly spread online.

Later, MEA Secretary Sibi George defended India’s democratic system, constitutional values, and human rights record during the interaction.

PM Modi has previously mentioned on international platforms that India’s image has changed globally from a country associated with ‘snake charmers’ to the one known for technology and skilled professionals. He reportedly made similar remarks during his 2014 speech at Madison Square Garden in the United States.