New Delhi: A Delhi court has decided to extend the custody of NewsClick founder, Prabir Purkayastha, and the HR head, Amit Chakraborty, in a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). This extension involves nine days of police custody, as reported by Bar and Bench, with their next appearance scheduled for November 2.
The decision for the continued police custody follows the Delhi police’s request to have the two NewsClick executives confronted with “protected witnesses.” Initially, Purkayastha and Chakraborty were arrested on October 3 and were placed in seven days of police custody before being shifted to judicial custody. Their judicial custody term expired recently.
NewsClick, the media outlet they are associated with, has contested these arrests and police actions and has sought redress from the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court is set to hear the case on October 30.
Purkayastha and Amit Chakraborty are also facing allegations of foreign funding violations as they have been booked by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
NewsClick has vehemently denied all allegations, categorizing the police actions as an attempt to “stifle fearless voices.” The organization has consistently refuted claims that it received funds or directions from Chinese entities.
In response to the escalating actions against the media, sixteen press groups previously wrote to the Chief Justice of India, urging the cessation of the “increasingly repressive use” of investigating agencies targeting the media.
Leading up to the arrests of Purkayastha and Chakraborty, the Delhi police conducted raids at more than 30 locations and interrogated over 35 journalists. Additionally, electronic devices belonging to these individuals were seized. The situation continues to draw attention and concern regarding press freedom and journalistic independence.
Read More: NewsClick Case: SC Issues Notice To Delhi Police
Join our WhatsApp Group for the Latest Updates!