Oslo, Norway:

A cartoon published by Norwegian newspaper Aftenposten during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Norway has sparked reactions on social media and among sections of the Indian community.

The illustration, published alongside an opinion article by columnist Frank Rossavik titled “A Clever and Slightly Annoying Man,” depicted a fuel pump emerging from a basket in a style resembling a snake-charmer act. The cartoon portrayed Prime Minister Modi seated in a lotus posture while playing a flute.

Several social media users and commentators criticized the cartoon, with some describing it as reflective of outdated stereotypes associated with India. Others defended it as political satire, leading to wider online debate.

During a media interaction in Oslo, a Norwegian journalist also raised questions related to press freedom and human rights in India. Prime Minister Modi responded to multiple questions during the interaction, while discussions around the exchange continued across international media and online platforms.

The publication of the cartoon and the reactions that followed have drawn attention in both Indian and international media circles.