Kashmir Times Office Raid: Editors Assert Commitment to Independent Journalism Amid Security Probe
Kashmir Times office raided by J&K police amid allegations of anti-national activities and weapon recovery.
The recent office raid on Kashmir Times conducted by the Jammu and Kashmir Police's State Investigation Agency (SIA) has led to the recovery of AK-47 rifle cartridges, pistol rounds, grenade pins, and other items, raising concerns over the organization's activities. The authorities alleged that the publication was involved in promoting activities against the country, prompting a case under charges of disaffection and threats to national sovereignty.
The raid, carried out on Thursday in Jammu, was part of an investigation into the newspaper and its promoters, including Editor Anuradha Bhasin. The police believed that the publication might have links to activities perceived as inimical to India's sovereignty, leading to a thorough search of the premises, computers, and other assets. The case was registered after intelligence inputs and intelligence gathering indicated possible seditious activities.
The Kashmir Times, which has been a prominent voice since 1954, responded strongly to the raid, asserting that it was a conscious attempt to silence independent journalism. The publication emphasized that criticizing the government and holding power to account are vital democratic functions, and the raid was an arbitrary move to delegitimize its work. The newspaper's editors, Anuradha Bhasin and Prabodh Jamwal, issued statements affirming their commitment to journalistic integrity and independence, reaffirming that their digital content remains accessible online.
Reacting to the situation, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Singh Choudhary stated that any action should be based on concrete evidence of wrongdoing and cautioned against using investigations solely as pressure tactics. The raid has sparked a broader debate around press freedom and government transparency amidst ongoing tensions in Kashmir.
The ongoing investigation and the recovery of weapons and ammunition have intensified concerns about regional security and the potential for increased unrest. Experts and political observers are closely monitoring the developments, emphasizing the need for transparency and adherence to legal procedures in managing such sensitive issues.
Also Read: Kashmir Times Office Raid: SIA Recovers Ammunition, Grenade Levers From Jammu Premises
