WASHINGTON – The US said it had seen reports of online media outlet NewsClick’s ties to China, but could not freely comment on them. US State Department Principal Deputy Spokesman Vedant Patel said he was aware of the concerns surrounding this. He also stated that the US will continue to call on the Indian government and other governments around the world to respect the human rights of journalists, including freedom of expression online and offline.
He was replying to a question raised by journalists about the raid conducted by the special cell of Delhi Police on the office of News Click and the residence of journalists. “We are aware of those concerns. Also saw reports about the media outlet’s ties to China. However, we cannot comment on the veracity of the claims,” he said.
Patel added that the US strongly supported the role of the media, including mass media, in a vibrant and free democracy. “Concerns are being raised with the Indian government and countries around the world on these issues. The importance of respecting the human rights of journalists, including freedom of expression online and offline, has been raised not only with India but also with other countries,” he said.
Prabir Purkayastha, the founder and editor-in-chief of NewsClick, and Amit Chakraborty, an investor and HR head of the firm, were arrested by the Delhi Police. The arrest was made after a raid was conducted at the office of News Click and the residences of the journalists who cooperated with them. During the search conducted at 46 centers from 6 am yesterday, mobile phones, laptops and other items of journalists were seized. News Click office sealed.
English Summary: Can’t comment on NewsClick’s China link, respect media freedom: US
2023-10-04 04:15:40
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