Norwegian journalist Helle Lyng has made a major claim after questioning Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Norway. She said Meta suspended her Instagram and Facebook accounts. Earlier, Lyng wrote on X that she could not access Instagram through the day. Later, she shared a screenshot of the alleged suspension notice. She wrote, “This is a small reward for press freedom, but I have never experienced this before.”
Journalist Tags Meta After Suspension
In another X post, the Norwegian journalist addressed users trying to contact her through Meta platforms. She said her Instagram and Facebook accounts now faced suspension. Then, she tagged Meta and wrote that she wanted to answer as many Indians as possible. However, she added that her replies would now get delayed. She also expressed hope that she would regain access to her accounts.
If you’re trying to reach me on Instagram or Facebook, I would like to let you know I have been suspended from both accounts. I have wanted to respond to as many Indians as possible, but my responses will now be delayed. I hope I will get my accounts back. @Meta
— Helle Lyng (@HelleLyngSvends) May 19, 2026
Viral Question Attempt Started Row
The controversy began during PM Modi’s joint media interaction with Norway’s Prime Minister. Lyng tried to ask him a question during that event. As the Indian Prime Minister left the room, she shouted, “Why don’t you take some questions from the world’s freest press?” However, it remained unclear whether Modi heard her remark. Still, the moment quickly went viral on social media.
Throughout all day I have struggled to log onto my Instagram account. Now I have been suspended. It is a small prize to pay for press freedom, but I’ve never experienced it before. pic.twitter.com/XCitS65Rlg
— Helle Lyng (@HelleLyngSvends) May 19, 2026
Lyng Defends Her Journalism
Later, Lyng defended her work on X. She said she never expected PM Modi to answer her question. While referring to global press freedom rankings, she wrote that Norway ranks first. Meanwhile, she said India stands at number 157. After the row grew, the Indian Embassy in Norway called a press briefing.
MEA Answers Her Questions
During that interaction, Lyng again raised questions about India’s credibility and human rights record. MEA Secretary West Sibi George responded to those points. He highlighted India’s civilisational history, chess, yoga, and Covid vaccine outreach. After this incident, anger against Lyng grew sharply on social media. Several users accused her of acting as a foreign spy and Chinese proxy.
Followers Rise After Online Backlash
Lyng later issued a clarification on X. She wrote, “I never thought I would have to write this, but I am not any foreign spy sent by any foreign government. My work is journalism.” Despite the controversy, her X followers rose quickly. Before Monday, she had fewer than 800 followers. Within days, that number crossed 45,000.
