The 2nd edition of the Bharat Summit in Hyderabad has become a subject of political controversy after Congress leader Shashi Tharoor alleged that 115 international speakers were denied entry into India or had their visas cancelled. The allegations have raised concerns over the participation of foreign delegates and the role of the government in visa-related decisions.

Why in the News?

On November 13, 2026, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor alleged that 115 out of 315 invited speakers were unable to attend the Bharat Summit due to visa-related restrictions.

  • He claimed that the action was apparently taken on the instructions of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
  • The summit is scheduled to conclude on November 14, 2026.
  • The issue has triggered a political debate between the Congress and the BJP over the nature and purpose of the summit.

About the Bharat Summit

The 2nd edition of the Bharat Summit is being held in Hyderabad. It aims to bring together nearly 1,000 participants from India and around 70 countries.

  • The event is being organised in the context of:
    • The 80th year of India's Independence.
    • The 137th birth anniversary of Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first Prime Minister.
  • The summit aims to promote dialogue and cooperation between the Global South and the Global North.

Key Initiatives of the Summit:

  • Establishment of a think tank named Our World Institute.
  • Creation of a platform for dialogue and cooperation between countries of the Global South and Global North.

Visa Controversy and Allegations

Shashi Tharoor alleged that 115 of the 315 invited speakers were denied entry into India or had their visas cancelled.

  • He questioned the legal basis for the government's action and asked under which law such decisions were taken.
  • He also argued that the short time remaining before the summit's conclusion made it difficult for affected participants to attend.

Case of Norwegian Journalist:

Norwegian journalist Helle Lyng, working for the Oslo-based newspaper Dagsavisen, claimed that the Indian Embassy had advised her not to travel to India.

  • She stated that she held a valid visa to participate in the summit.

Other Congress Allegations:

Congress MP and Telangana Congress media in-charge Chamala Kiran Kumar Reddy alleged that nearly 30% of the invitees could not travel to India due to visa-related issues.

  • Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, is scheduled to attend the valedictory session on November 14, 2026.

Government's Response

  • When asked about the allegations, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that visa matters are the sovereign functions of every country and government.
  • His response highlighted the government's authority to take decisions on visa-related matters.

BJP's Opposition to the Bharat Summit

The BJP has criticised the summit and described it as an "anti-India summit".

Major Allegations by BJP Leaders:

  • Union Coal Minister G. Kishan Reddy accused the summit of providing a platform to forces critical of India's interests.
  • Telangana BJP leaders alleged that the event was intended to bring together groups opposed to the country.
  • Telangana BJP President N. Ramchander Rao questioned the use of public funds for organising the event.
  • He accused Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy of spending public money to support forces critical of India to please Rahul Gandhi.
  • BJP leaders in Telangana also announced plans to protest against Rahul Gandhi's visit to Hyderabad.

Key Issues Raised by the Controversy

  • Freedom of Expression: The allegations have raised concerns about the participation of international speakers and the space available for critical views.
  • Visa Sovereignty: The MEA has emphasised that visa decisions fall within the sovereign authority of a country.
  • International Participation: Visa-related restrictions may affect the participation of foreign delegates in international events.
  • Political Differences: The controversy reflects the political disagreement between the Congress and BJP over the purpose and organisation of the summit.

Conclusion

The Bharat Summit controversy highlights the tension between national sovereignty, visa regulations, and international dialogue. While every country has the authority to regulate the entry of foreign nationals, transparency in visa-related decisions is important, particularly when international events are involved. Constructive political debate and open dialogue can help protect India's democratic image and strengthen its engagement with the international community.