Delhi Court Allows NewsClick HR Head Amit Chakraborty To Turn Approver In UAPA Case

A Delhi Court has has allowed a plea moved by NewsClick Human Resources head Amit Chakraborty to turn approver in the UAPA case registered following allegations of the portal receiving money for pro-China propaganda.

Additional Sessions Judge Hardeep Kaur of Patiala House Courts allowed Chakraborty's application seeking permission to turn approver as well as seeking pardon in the case.

Chakraborty had moved the application expressing his willingness to disclose information in relation to the case to the Delhi Police. His statement has also been recorded before the magistrate, according to the procedure.

NewsClick's founder Prabir Purkayastha and Chakraborty were arrested in October last year, after searches were conducted at various locations. Purkayastha is in judicial custody in the case.

Background

On October 03, 2023, the Delhi police conducted raids on the residences of prominent journalists associated with NewsClick. According to police officials, a total of 46 suspects – 37 men, and 9 women – were questioned and their electronic devices seized under the UAPA.

The organisation came under the investigating agency's scanner after a report by The New York Times said the firm allegedly received money from US billionaire Neville Roy Singham, who is accused of pushing campaigns in support of China and its propaganda.

In October last year, the Delhi High Court dismissed the pleas of Purkayastha and Chakraborty challenging a trial court order remanding them to seven days of police custody in the case.

Aggrieved by the high court's decision, Purkayastha and Chakraborty filed special leave petitions in the Supreme Court. These pleas are currently pending before the top court, which issued notice in both petitions.

In related news, the company owning the NewsClick portal has also approached the Supreme Court against a Delhi High Court order rejecting its challenge against the demand raised by tax authorities, seeking an ad-interim ex-parte stay. Notice has been issued in the matter.