A Delhi court has recently dismissed a petition by NewsClick founder-editor Prabir Purkayastha, who sought the release of his electronic devices seized in connection with a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The case against Purkayastha involves allegations that the news portal received funds to disseminate pro-China propaganda.
Special Judge Hardeep Kaur, who presides over terror-related cases, rejected the plea on December 16. The judge stated that the grounds presented were not sufficient to allow the application at this stage. This decision comes amidst the ongoing judicial custody of Purkayastha and Human Resources head Amit Chakravarty, which has been extended until December 22.
The Special Cell of Delhi Police arrested Purkayastha and Chakravarty on October 3. Following their arrest, they were initially sent to seven days’ police custody. The duo subsequently challenged their police remand in the High Court, which upheld the remand. They then approached the Supreme Court against the dismissal of their petitions challenging the police remand. On October 19, the apex court issued notices to Delhi Police regarding their petitions.
During the proceedings, Senior Advocate Kapil Sibal, representing Purkayastha, argued that
“all facts are false and not a penny came from China.”
The case has drawn significant attention, partly due to a ‘New York Times’ investigation that accused NewsClick of being funded by a network linked to US millionaire Neville Roy Singham, allegedly to promote Chinese propaganda.
The Delhi Police, in a statement regarding the search, seizure, and detentions carried out in connection with the UAPA case, mentioned that a total of 37 male suspects were questioned at the office premises, and nine female suspects were questioned at their residences. Digital devices, documents, and other materials were seized or collected for examination. The Special Cell had registered an FIR in this case on August 17 under various sections of the UAPA and the Indian Penal Code against NewsClick.
This development in the case against Purkayastha and Chakravarty highlights the complexities involved in cases related to national security and freedom of the press. The dismissal of the plea for the release of seized electronic devices underscores the legal challenges faced by individuals and organizations in such high-profile cases.