Australian filmmaker denied entry to India over ‘2012 nuclear protest documentary’

Oscar-nominated Australian filmmaker David Bradbury was denied entry into India after arriving in Chennai from Bangkok on September 10 with his two children for a holiday, international media reported.

Despite having valid visas issued by the Indian consulate in Canberra, Bradbury, an Oscar-nominated filmmaker and anti-nuclear activist, was barred due to his 2012 documentary on protests against the Kudankulam nuclear power plant in Tamil Nadu, The News Minute reported.

His children were allowed entry, but Bradbury faced interrogation by immigration officers, who questioned his past activities in India.

The report added that Bradbury refused to unlock his phone, was denied access to medication and warm clothing, and was eventually deported to Bangkok.

He speculated that his visa was canceled because of his documentary, which highlighted the struggles of local fisherfolk protesting against the nuclear plant.

Now back in Bangkok, Bradbury plans to stay there while his children visit the Indian sites he had intended to show them.