Why first deny, then allow?: Priyank Kharge asks MEA to explain 'politics' behind its US trip approval

Karnataka Minister Priyank Kharge has questioned the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) over the inconsistent handling of his delegation's proposed visit to the United States. Initially denied permission, the trip was later approved, prompting Kharge to allege political motivations behind the MEA's decision-making process. This unexpected reversal has raised eyebrows and sparked discussions about the transparency and impartiality of the approval procedures for official trips abroad. Kharge voiced his concerns in a public statement, urging the MEA to clarify the reasoning behind the initial refusal and the subsequent approval. He suggested that such decisions should be free from political influence to maintain fairness and trust. The minister emphasized that official visits are crucial for fostering international relationships and should not be subject to arbitrary political considerations that could hinder diplomatic engagements. The incident has drawn attention to the broader issue of how governmental permissions for international travel are managed, especially for state-level officials. Critics argue that clear guidelines and consistent application are essential to prevent perceptions of bias or favoritism. As the MEA faces calls for greater transparency, this episode underscores the need for a standardized approach to ensure that political agendas do not impede important diplomatic missions.

— Authored by Next24 Live