NewsClick's China Link: After Delhi, Activist Teesta Setalvad's Mumbai Residence Raided

Raids were conducted by the Delhi Police's special cell on Tuesday (3 October) morning at 30 premises connected with the online portal NewsClick, as well as the houses of its journalists.

Additionally, searches were carried out at 'activist' Teesta Setalvad's residence in Juhu by teams from both the Delhi Police special cell and Mumbai Police.

NewsClick editor Prabir Purkayastha, along with writers Paranjoy Guha Thakurta and Urmilesh, were brought to the special cell offices in the national capital by the police officials.

The raids conducted by the Delhi Police at various locations associated with NewsClick received responses from leaders of different political parties.

Minister of Information and Broadcasting Anurag Thakur defended the police action, stating that investigative agencies have the freedom to conduct inquiries within established guidelines if any wrongdoing has been committed.

Opposition parties swiftly criticised the police action, accusing the central government of targeting journalists.

Rashtriya Janata Dal leader and MP Manoj Jha claimed that the raids on the portal were being conducted under the direction of the central government. He questioned the role of the Delhi Police and insinuated political influence, stating that, "They are under Home Minister Amit Shah, and nothing takes place without his consent."

Congress leader Pawan Khera characterised the police action as a tactic of distraction employed by the Centre, suggesting that it was meant to divert attention from other pressing issues.

In contrast, the Bharatiya Janata Party argued that the investigation against NewsClick was already underway, and the police were acting within the bounds of the law.

The raids are part of an investigation initiated under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and other sections of the Indian Penal Code.

Notably, recent reports in The New York Times have implicated NewsClick in a global network funded by American billionaire Neville Roy Singham, known for his support of far-left causes and connections to the Chinese government's media apparatus.