A political cartoon published by Norwegian newspaper Aftenposten during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Norway has sparked strong reactions online, with many social media users accusing the publication of promoting outdated and offensive stereotypes about India.

The controversy erupted after an illustration accompanying an opinion article in the newspaper began circulating widely on social media platforms. The cartoon reportedly portrayed a caricature resembling PM Modi as a snake charmer, an image critics said echoed long-standing Western stereotypes associated with India.

According to reports, the artwork appeared alongside a commentary piece published shortly before Modi arrived in Oslo for official engagements. Several users on X criticised the newspaper, alleging that the depiction reduced India to colonial-era clichés involving snake charmers, mysticism and superstition.

The viral debate added to an already tense atmosphere surrounding the Prime Minister’s Norway visit, which had earlier witnessed a sharp exchange during a media interaction involving Norwegian journalist Helle Lyng.

During a joint appearance with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, the journalist questioned why PM Modi did not take questions from the press. Modi did not respond directly during the event, but the issue later drew a detailed reaction from senior Indian diplomat Sibi George.

Responding to the criticism, George defended India’s democratic institutions and constitutional framework, arguing that some international observers form opinions about the country based on selective narratives and incomplete understanding of India’s diversity and scale.

The diplomat also pushed back against allegations raised during the interaction, stressing that India’s democratic system and governance mechanisms remain robust and accountable.