A French expatriate, claiming over two decades of journalistic work in India and marriage to an Indian citizen, expressed her imminent departure from the country following a notice from New Delhi alleging her articles were detrimental to state interests. Vanessa Dougnac disclosed receiving a warning from Indian authorities last month, questioning her Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) status due to allegedly malicious articles.

In a statement, Dougnac lamented the impact on her livelihood and cited the proceedings as part of a broader governmental attempt to suppress dissent among OCI holders. While she vowed to contest the accusations, she acknowledged the urgency of her situation, unable to endure the uncertainty surrounding the authorities' decision.

Despite attempts to seek clarification from India's federal home and foreign ministries, responses were not forthcoming. Dougnac, who obtained her OCI status through marriage, faces the prospect of losing the privileges associated with it, including a lifelong multiple entry visa.

French authorities intervened on Dougnac's behalf during President Macron's recent visit to India, emphasizing adherence to regulations. However, the French Foreign Ministry remained silent on the matter at the time of reporting.