New Delhi: On October 10, 2023, a Delhi court sent NewsClick founder Prabir Purkayastha and human resources department head Amit Chakravarty to 10-day judicial custody in connection with a case lodged under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).
Purkayastha and Chakravarty were arrested on October 3, 2023, by the Delhi Police Special Cell, which alleged that NewsClick had received funds from abroad to spread pro-China propaganda and disrupt the sovereignty of India.
The two were produced before Additional Sessions Judge Hardeep Kaur around 2:50 PM, following which the prosecution sought 10 days judicial custody for the duo.
“It is admitted position that there is no stay by the Delhi High Court against the proceedings in the present case,” ASJ Kaur said.
The court rejected the police’s plea for 14-day police remand, saying that the police had not provided sufficient grounds for the remand. The court also observed that the UAPA is a stringent law and that it should not be used lightly.
The arrest of Purkayastha and Chakravarty has been condemned by many journalists and media organizations, who have called it an attack on press freedom.
It is important to note that the allegations against Purkayastha and Chakravarty have not been proven in a court of law. They are entitled to the presumption of innocence until proven guilty.