High-Level Political Influence Suspected Behind Unlawful Police Raid on Asianet News Office.
In what appears to be a shocking violation of freedom of journalism and legal procedures, the Kozhikode office of Asianet News was subjected to an unwarranted police search. This drastic measure came to light following a complaint lodged by MLA PV Anwar, which, strangely, had no apparent connection with the anti-drug campaign run by Asianet News or any related case.
It is reported that the alleged police action occurred under significant political pressure. Astonishingly, the police bypassed essential legal procedures, including recording the complainant’s statement and conducting a preliminary investigation, which are standard practice before warrant execution.
Interestingly, despite being the core figure in this incident, the complainant, MLA PV Anwar, escaped without an initial questioning or recording of a statement. This is in stark contrast to the child victim’s family, who has been consistently supporting Asianet News, questioning why legal procedures were not followed.
This incident raises alarming concerns about the misuse of power, as the authorities jumped to action without following standard legal protocols. It leads to suspicions regarding the possible involvement of high-level political figures wishing to exert undue pressure on the media outlet.
The unwarranted raid on the Asianet News office is seen as a direct assault on journalistic freedom and a gross misuse of power. The incident involved shutting down operations and inspecting computers without executing preliminary legal steps. Consequently, it raises serious questions about the Kerala government’s intentions behind such an unprecedented action against a media organization.
Another disturbing detail is that the preliminary investigation, usually done before raiding premises, was conducted only after the police entered the Asianet News office. This decision of the Kerala government has caused a stir among media professionals and activists, who see it as a direct infringement of freedom of expression and journalistic rights.
Even city police officials admitted that several procedural steps were ignored, such as recording the complainant’s statement and conducting a preliminary examination. Their acknowledgment further reinforces the concerns about the likely high-level political intervention prompting such actions.
The incident undoubtedly exhibits the Kerala government’s misuse of the police department, seemingly under high-level political pressure. It raises significant questions about the justification for the police to enter a media office without following standard legal procedures. The incident underscores the urgent need to address these issues and take appropriate action to safeguard journalists’ rights to freedom of expression.
In Conclusion
The Kerala government’s alleged misuse of police power to raid Asianet News’ media office represents a dangerous violation of journalistic freedom and freedom of expression. It is crucial to address these concerns promptly and take appropriate measures to prevent the recurrence of such power abuse in the future. The media’s role as an independent information source and watchdog must be respected, ensuring journalists can perform their duties without fear or undue political interference.
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