Editors of Kashmir Times condemned the raids conducted by the State Investigation Agency (SIA) on the newspaper’s office, describing the allegations of the outlet being involved in activities “inimical to the state” as unfounded and intended to curb independent journalism in the region.
In a statement released on Thursday, the editors characterized the searches and accusations as part of a “coordinated crackdown” targeting one of the oldest newspapers in Jammu and Kashmir. They emphasized that criticizing the government does not equate to being against the state, asserting that a questioning press “strengthens our nation” rather than weakens it.
Official sources indicate that a case has been initiated against the newspaper and its Editor, Anuradha Bhasin, a recognized journalist and author, to investigate alleged connections and activities that purportedly threaten India’s sovereignty.
The raids have drawn widespread condemnation from activists and journalists. Suhasini Haidar, a senior journalist with The Hindu, remarked, “Democracy dies in darkness…and in silence against such patently politically motivated raids.”
Prominent voices on social media have also expressed support for Kashmir Times. Shabnam Hashmi stated, “Strongly condemn raids on Kashmir Times, one of the last independent voices for truth, accountability & public interest reporting. This is an attack on #FreePress. Stand in solidarity with Anuradha Bhasin & #KashmirTimes.”
Founded in 1954 by Ved Bhasin, Kashmir Times has a history of documenting political developments, governance failures, and marginalized voices. The newspaper claims it is being specifically targeted for continuing to “speak truth to power” at a time when independent media faces increasing pressure.
The statement from the editorial team declared, “The accusations leveled against us are designed to intimidate, to delegitimize, and ultimately to silence. We will not be silenced.”
The newspaper has called on authorities to cease the “harassment,” withdraw the allegations, and uphold constitutional guarantees of press freedom, urging fellow journalists, civil society groups, and citizens to defend independent media.
Kashmir Times also noted that its print edition had been suspended during 2021–22 following sustained targeting, but it continues to operate digitally with all reporting accessible online. The statement was signed by editors Prabodh Jamwal and Anuradha Bhasin.
This report originally appeared on Maktoob Media.
Tags: “Another attempt to silence us”: Kashmir Times denounces SIA raids, calls allegations “attack on press freedom” Extract 5 SEO-friendly keywords as tags. Output only keywords, comma separated.
Hashtags: #attempt #silence #Kashmir #Times #denounces #SIA #raids #calls #allegations #attack #press #freedom
