A group of prominent members of the civil society, including writers and historians, have expressed their shock and concern on the recent raids on the houses of persons associated with the news website, NewsClick, and the arrest of two, including its editor Prabir Purkayastha under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
In a joint statement, they said the action against persons connected to NewsClick was a “chilling attempt to silence their brave voices”. The statement said all of them were well-known journalists and activists who had a commendable body of work to their credit.
The signatories said criticism was essential for a democracy and any attempt to mute voices was an assault on India’s democratic spirit. “By foisting cases under Sections of the UAPA and sealing the office of NewsClick the State is attempting to vilify journalists who have consistently and fearlessly spoken truth to power,” they said.
