Tharoor: India Needs ‘Thicker Skin’ After Scholar’s Deportation

Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has strongly criticized the Indian government’s decision to deport noted Hindi scholar Francesca Orsini, suggesting the nation’s establishment requires a more resilient and open mindset. Orsini, a distinguished professor emerita from the University of London, was deported from Delhi Airport on October 21st for allegedly violating visa conditions. Tharoor echoed sentiments shared by former BJP MP Swapan Dasgupta, who argued that while visa compliance is essential, the government should not arbitrate academic merit. Tharoor took to social media to express his agreement, stating that expelling foreign academics over minor visa breaches causes more harm to India’s global standing, culture, and credibility than any critical academic publication. He urged official India to adopt a ‘thicker skin, a broader mind and a bigger heart’ to foster a more welcoming environment for international scholars. Orsini, a renowned expert in Hindi literature, was reportedly blacklisted in March for visa violations. Her deportation has drawn criticism from academics worldwide, who view it as damaging to India’s image as an intellectually open society. Government sources maintain that the action followed standard procedure for individuals found in breach of visa terms, emphasizing the importance of adhering to declared travel purposes as per Indian visa guidelines.