Delhi Police Arrests NewsClick Founder Prabir Purkayastha and Others in UAPA Case

Delhi Police Arrests NewsClick Founder Prabir Purkayastha and Others in UAPA Case

Asif Iqbal | October 3, 2023 | 11:08 PM IST | Breaking News, Crime, Delhi | Follow on Google News

Delhi Police Arrests NewsClick Founder Prabir Purkayastha and Others in UAPA Case

Raid and Interrogations Unfold

In a significant development on Tuesday, the Delhi Police arrested two individuals, including Prabir Purkayastha, the founder and editor-in-chief of NewsClick. The arrests came after extensive questioning at the NewsClick office, which had been subjected to raids under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and other sections. This event marks a notable episode in the ongoing investigation.

Extensive Questioning and Detentions

According to the Delhi Police, a total of 37 male suspects were questioned at the premises, while nine female suspects underwent questioning at their respective places of stay. The operation included search, seizure, and detentions in connection with the UAPA case registered with the Special Cell.

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Digital Devices and Documents Seized

During the operation, digital devices, documents, and other materials were seized and collected for examination. The authorities are expected to scrutinize these items as part of the ongoing investigation into NewsClick and its journalists.

Raid Spree Across Multiple Locations

The Delhi Police’s Special Cell sealed the NewsClick office in the national capital, and raids were conducted at more than 30 locations. These actions were taken in connection with a case registered on August 17 under the UAPA and other sections of the IPC, including charges related to promoting enmity between groups and criminal conspiracy.

In response to these developments, Union Minister Anurag Thakur stated that if such actions have been taken, they must have been backed by evidence or complaints. Meanwhile, the Editors Guild of India expressed deep concern over the raids, highlighting that senior journalists’ laptops, mobile phones, and devices were seized, and they were taken into custody for questioning. The raids are related to an FIR filed under the draconian UAPA, criminal conspiracy laws, and laws concerning the disruption of communal harmony.

Earlier this year, the New York Times alleged NewsClick’s involvement in a global network receiving funding from American billionaire Neville Roy Singham. Singham, known as a benefactor of far-left causes, is associated with a lavishly funded influence campaign defending China and promoting its propaganda. He also has close ties with the Chinese government’s media machine.

These arrests and raids have ignited discussions about press freedom and the implications of the UAPA on journalistic activities. The investigation into NewsClick and its journalists continues to unfold, with many closely monitoring the situation.

Asif Iqbal

Asif Iqbal is a seasoned news writer with a passion for delivering the latest updates to the public. Currently serving as the senior writer at VoM News, a prominent news outlet known for its comprehensive coverage of diverse topics, Asif has established himself as a reliable source of information. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, he consistently provides readers with well-crafted articles that cover a wide range of news categories. His dedication to journalistic integrity and his commitment to staying ahead of the news curve make him an invaluable asset to Vom News, ensuring that readers are always well-informed on the issues that matter most. You can find his work and stay updated on current events by visiting vomnews.in.