By Muslim Mirror Desk
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and Guernica 37 Chambers have jointly urged the European Union to take action against four senior officers of the Delhi police, who are allegedly involved in or responsible for violations against numerous journalists associated with the independent media outlet NewsClick. The arbitrary raid conducted by the Indian police on journalists working for NewsClick has raised serious concerns, prompting RSF and Guernica 37 Chambers to present the case to the European External Action Service for potential sanctions against the implicated officials.
The raid, orchestrated by members of the Special Cell of the Delhi police, targeted the residences of 46 journalists in the capital and surrounding areas in October 2023. These journalists, either currently working for or previously affiliated with NewsClick, had their electronic devices confiscated, including phones and laptops. Furthermore, two key figures from NewsClick, Human Resources Director Amit Chakravarty and founder Prabir Purkayastha, were arrested under the stringent UAPA anti-terrorism law and are presently detained in Delhi’s Tihar prison.
RSF and Guernica 37 Chambers advocate for European Union sanctions against these Delhi police officers under a mechanism established in December 2020 to address severe human rights violations in non-EU countries. Such sanctions could encompass travel bans, asset freezes within the EU, and restrictions on business dealings with European entities. The organizations emphasize the gravity of the situation, labeling it as one of the most severe assaults on press freedom in India and highlighting the need for swift action by the EU.
The targeting of NewsClick journalists appears to stem from their investigative reporting, particularly on issues such as alleged financial improprieties involving the Adani group and the coverage of farmers’ protests. The Delhi Police’s Special Cell, operating under the purview of the Home Ministry led by Amit Shah, has a history of intimidating government critics, including activists opposing controversial legislative reforms.
The use of the UAPA by the Special Cell to silence dissenting voices has drawn international criticism, with concerns raised by the United Nations and several foreign governments regarding its potential for misuse by authorities. RSF and Guernica 37 Chambers view EU sanctions as a necessary step to not only address the repression of journalists in India but also to send a strong message to the Indian government ahead of upcoming elections regarding the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms.