Delhi Police has taken a significant step in the UAPA case against NewsClick and its founder Prabir Purkayastha, filing an extensive charge sheet spanning about 8,000 pages.
The charge sheet alleges that NewsClick was involved in propagating Chinese interests, implicating Purkayastha and the company, PPK NEWSCLICK Studio Private Limited, as the accused parties. This development marks a crucial phase in the ongoing investigation, shedding light on the allegations of unlawful activities.
The charge sheet submission took place before Additional Sessions Judge Hardeep Kaur, with special public prosecutors Akhand Pratap Singh and Suraj Rathi representing the case.
Naming Purkayastha and the company as accused, the document reportedly includes detailed annexures, reflecting the complexity and depth of the investigation. The court has scheduled further proceedings for April 16, emphasising the gravity of the charges and the legal process ahead.
Recognizing the significance of the case, the court had previously granted extensions to the Delhi Police for the investigation. These extensions, granted in December last year and February this year, were necessary to ensure a thorough and comprehensive probe. Additionally, in March, an additional 10-day extension was provided, highlighting the meticulous approach taken by the authorities in handling the case.
Under Section 43 D of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), the investigative timeline can be extended to up to 180 days, reflecting the complexities involved in cases of this nature. The charges filed by the Delhi Police Special Cell, encompassing various sections of the UAPA and additional provisions of the Indian Penal Code, underscore the seriousness of the allegations.
The arrest of Prabir Purkayastha and HR head Amit Chakravarty in October 2023 marked a crucial turning point in the investigation. Chakravarty's subsequent application to become an approver, granted by the court in January this year, further intensified the legal proceedings. This development also highlights the intricate legal manoeuvres and the evolving nature of the case.
Overall, the filing of the charge sheet represents a significant milestone in the NewsClick case, signalling the intensification of legal proceedings and underscoring the gravity of the allegations. As the case progresses, it will continue to draw attention and scrutiny, shaping the discourse around media freedom and legal accountability.
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