Why Did EGI Condemn the Exclusion of Women Journalists from Muttaqi's Press Conference?
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Synopsis
The Editors Guild of India has raised its voice against the exclusion of women journalists from a press conference by Afghanistan's Foreign Minister in New Delhi, calling for gender equity in media access. This incident highlights serious concerns over gender discrimination and the need for an inclusive press environment.
Key Takeaways
- Strong condemnation of gender discrimination in media access.
- The necessity for gender equity in press events.
- Importance of solidarity in the journalism community.
- Impact of diplomatic events on public perception.
- Call for action against discriminatory practices.
New Delhi, Oct 11 (NationPress) Following a press conference held on Friday by Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi at the Afghan Embassy in New Delhi, which barred women journalists from attending, the Editors Guild of India expressed its strong condemnation of this exclusion on Saturday.
The purpose of the conference was to discuss important diplomatic and bilateral matters during Mr. Muttaqi’s visit to India. Although diplomatic events may be protected under the Vienna Convention, this does not excuse blatant gender discrimination in press access within Indian territory, the media organization stated in its press release.
The manner in which the conference was conducted was restrictive; only a limited number of journalists were invited, and the absence of female journalists has led to significant diplomatic embarrassment for both the Taliban and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
“Regardless of whether the MEA had a role in organizing the event, it is profoundly concerning that such a discriminatory practice was allowed to take place without challenge. The lack of unity in condemning this exclusion demonstrates a troubling complacency within our community,” the EGI remarked.
Importantly, the MEA clarified on Saturday that the invitations for the press meeting were extended to select journalists from Afghanistan's Consul General in Mumbai, who were currently in Delhi for the Afghan minister's visit.
The Editors Guild of India has called on the Indian Government to publicly affirm that access to the press at diplomatic events hosted in India must adhere to principles of gender equity.
“We urge our fellow journalists and media organizations to reflect on this oversight and adopt a zero-tolerance position against any form of discriminatory exclusion at press events. A free and inclusive press must champion representation and not facilitate exclusion,” it emphasized.
As reported by IANS on Friday evening, Taliban official Ikramuddin Kamil, who has been with Afghanistan’s Mumbai consulate since last year, personally contacted these selected journalists via phone to extend the informal invitation.
Point of View
It is imperative to note that such exclusions undermine the core values of journalistic integrity and equality. Our nation must stand firmly against any form of discrimination, ensuring that every journalist, irrespective of gender, has equal access to information.
NationPress
12/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened during the press conference?
Afghanistan's Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi held a press conference in New Delhi that excluded women journalists, leading to condemnation from the Editors Guild of India.
Why did the Editors Guild of India condemn this action?
The Editors Guild condemned the exclusion as it represents blatant gender discrimination, which is unacceptable in any democratic society.
What is the stance of the Ministry of External Affairs regarding this incident?
The MEA clarified that the invitations were sent to select journalists from Afghanistan's Consul General in Mumbai, indicating a limited selection process.
What does the Editors Guild of India call for?
The Guild urges the Indian Government to reaffirm the importance of gender equity in press access at diplomatic events.
How can journalists address such discrimination?
Journalists and media organizations are encouraged to adopt a zero-tolerance policy towards any exclusion based on gender.
