SEATTLE — Kshama Sawant, a Seattle City Councilmember and prominent socialist politician, was denied an emergency visa to India by the Indian Consulate in Seattle, with officials citing her inclusion on the Modi government’s “rejection list.” The consulate reportedly granted a visa to her husband, Calvin Priest, but offered no further explanation for Sawant’s denial beyond stating her name appeared on the list.
Sawant, a vocal critic of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s policies, linked the decision to her office’s 2020 resolution condemning India’s Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and National Register of Citizens (NRC), which critics argue discriminate against Muslims and marginalized communities. The Seattle City Council, under her leadership, became the first U.S. city to pass such a resolution. Additionally, Sawant spearheaded a landmark 2020 ordinance banning caste-based discrimination in Seattle, a first in the U.S.
“This is a blatant act of retaliation by the Modi government for our solidarity with India’s oppressed minorities and workers,” Sawant said in a statement. “Denying me a visa because we opposed the CAA-NRC—which threatens millions with statelessness—exposes the regime’s intolerance of dissent.”
The Indian Consulate in Seattle declined to elaborate on the “rejection list” or provide specifics about Sawant’s case. India’s Ministry of External Affairs has not yet responded to requests for comment.
Sawant’s supporters allege the visa denial reflects escalating repression against critics of the Modi administration, particularly those advocating for Muslim rights and social justice. The CAA, passed in 2019, fast-tracks citizenship for non-Muslim migrants from neighboring countries, while the NRC initiative has raised fears of disenfranchisement among India’s Muslim population.
Political analysts suggest the move could strain U.S.-India diplomatic relations, with Sawant’s case highlighting concerns over free speech and the targeting of dissenters. Civil rights groups and progressive organizations have condemned the decision, calling it an attempt to silence international solidarity with Indian social movements.
Sawant, a three-term councilmember known for her advocacy on housing, labor, and anti-discrimination policies, stated she will continue mobilizing opposition to the CAA-NRC and caste oppression despite the visa denial.
*This is a developing story. Updates to follow as more information becomes available.*
