NewsClick Founders Challenge Delhi High Court Decision

NewsClick Founders Challenge Delhi High Court Decision

NewsClick Founders Challenge Delhi High Court Decision

Prominent media organization NewsClick’s founder, Prabir Purkayastha, and the head of their human resources department, Amit Chakraborty, have taken their legal battle to the highest authority in India, the Supreme Court. Their move comes in response to a Delhi High Court order that refused to revoke their arrest and remand in connection with a UAPA (Unlawful Activities Prevention Act) case. The case has raised concerns about the enforcement of the stringent anti-terror law in the country.

Supreme Court to Deliberate on UAPA Arrest

In a significant development, the Supreme Court has stepped in to review the situation. They have asked Prabir Purkayastha’s counsel, the esteemed Kapil Sibal, to circulate relevant legal documents, indicating their intention to consider the matter further. This development opens the door for potential reevaluation of the case.

UAPA Arrests and the Demand for Written Grounds

The Delhi High Court, in its earlier ruling, contended that the UAPA did not necessitate the provision of written grounds of arrest at the time of detention. This decision directly contradicted Purkayastha and Chakraborty’s claim that they were entitled to such written grounds during their detention. As a result, the court’s decision drew attention to the issue of the right to be informed of the reasons for one’s arrest and the UAPA’s application.

Delhi High Court’s Verdict and Implications

The Delhi High Court’s verdict made it clear that they believed the petition lacked merit. They dismissed the case, along with pending applications, stating that it lacked any procedural infirmity or violation of the provisions of the UAPA. They emphasized that the grounds of arrest were conveyed to the petitioner in a timely manner, and therefore, the arrest was in accordance with the law.

This legal battle between NewsClick founders and the Indian judicial system highlights the complexities and contentious aspects of the UAPA, shedding light on the broader debate regarding individual rights and the fight against terrorism.