Prominent MP and Journalist Ajit Kumar Bhuyan Slams BJP Government’s Suppression of Independent Media, Demands Release of NewsClick Editors

Guwahati: In a press conference held in Guwahati on Friday, Rajya Sabha MP and prominent journalist Ajit Kumar Bhuyan condemned the BJP government’s alleged suppression of criticism and harassment of independent news organizations, citing concerns about the upcoming Lok Sabha elections.

MP Bhuyan expressed his strong disapproval of the government’s recent actions against the digital news platform “NewsClick,” carried out by the Delhi Police. He stated, “We strongly condemn the attack by the Government of India on the digital news platform NewsClick, on behalf of the Assam Civil Society and the Assam State Committee of The Bharat Jodo Abhiyan.”

During the press conference, Bhuyan expressed solidarity with NewsClick, an independent news organization known for its fearless and informative reporting. He highlighted the organization’s commitment to serving the interests of the common people of India by providing insightful analysis and facilitating discussions.

MP Bhuyan demanded the immediate release of NewsClick’s founder-editor, Prabir Purkayastha, and the news agency’s administration officer, Amit Chakraborty, who have been detained by authorities. He raised concerns about the lack of evidence and proper legal procedures in the actions taken against the journalists, employees, and academics associated with NewsClick. He emphasized that these individuals were being subjected to intrusive searches without due process, solely based on an article published in The New York Times.

Questioning the legality and fairness of the police’s actions, Bhuyan challenged the government’s conduct, highlighting that no charges of illegal money laundering had been substantiated against NewsClick. He noted that the Enforcement Directorate had failed to file any complaints or charges in over two years, and the Economic Offences Wing of Delhi Police had not issued any chargesheet against the news organization under the Indian Penal Code.

Bhuyan characterized these actions as a blatant attack on freedom of the press and freedom of expression, both of which are constitutionally guaranteed rights. He called on all individuals who value constitutional principles and democracy to protest against such acts of repression.

As the controversy surrounding the harassment of NewsClick continues to unfold, it highlights ongoing tensions between the government and independent media outlets in India, raising concerns about the state of press freedom in the country.