U.S. Congressman Campaigns to Invite Narendra Modi

However, it is Mr Walsh's argument that Mr Modi "has never been tried nor convicted, as required under this statute, of any religious crimes in any country. Regardless, the statute states that he can be denied a visa only up to 24 months after a conviction. The allegations arose in 2002; it is now 2012."

In a reply to the Congressman dated July 3, 2012, David S Adams, Assistant Secretary, Legislative Affairs at the State Department, countered the argument. He said that the two-year limitation cited by Mr Walsh was eliminated under a section of the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004. "This provision now makes persons found to have committed these acts permanently ineligible for a visa. No conviction is required," Mr Adams said. However he said, "Should Mr Modi submit a new application for a visa in the future, he will be given every possible consideration consistent with U.S. law and policy."

Notwithstanding that, Mr Walsh maintained in his interview that both the administrations have got this issue wrong. "Mr Modi has neither been tried nor convicted of any religious crimes in any country," he said.

Asked how hopeful he is of a resolution of this case, Mr Walsh told IANS: "I would not be taking on this cause if I were not hopeful that a resolution was possible. This is an important issue to many of my constituents and I plan on seeing it through."