'A pattern of vindictive action': Network of Women in Media, India, condemns ED raids on Newsclick

The Network of Women in Media, India, issued a statement condemning the Enforcement Directorate raids on the Delhi office of Newsclick and the homes of its senior management.

NWMI described the raids – which lasted for 36 hours – as "yet another example of intensifying attempts to intimidate and silence independent media that have consistently reported rights violations and growing dissent across the country".

The statement continued: "NWMI notes with concern the continuous targeting of independent media houses and journalists as well as other individuals who have challenged the official narrative. The recent raids clearly establish a pattern of vindictive action against independent voices speaking out on vital issues, including the ongoing farmers’ protests."

NWMI said it was "evident" that the government is "proactively seeking to muzzle dissent", and cited "the slapping of cases on various grounds, including sedition, on prominent journalists and media organisations and the deactivation of the social media accounts of vocal individuals."

The Newsclick raids began on February 9. According to the Indian Express, the raids are allegedly linked to "foreign remittances" totalling Rs 30.51 crore. The raids have been condemned by various journalism bodies, including the Press Club of India, the Editors Guild, and DIGIPUB News India Foundation.