Statement by Newsclick Editor-in-Chief Prabir Purkayastha

A smear campaign has been launched in the media against Newsclick, by what the news reports term as sources within the Enforcement Directorate (ED). This is with respect to foreign direct investments that have been made in Newsclick and the fees received for syndication services it has carried out, through normal banking channels. Newsclick has received funds, which have been duly disclosed to authorities in India, both from reputed entities and foundations in the US and as per rules and regulations in India and the United States governing such transactions.

The selective leaks from ED regarding their investigation, which is already under challenge before the Court, reflect the inherent weakness in their own investigations and the course that it will take in the courts. Since the matter is already in the courts, Newsclick does not believe that it should participate in a media trial. It is unfortunate that the BJP, the ruling party, also sees fit to air such unfounded allegations.

We reserve the right to initiate appropriate legal action on these matters. Newsclick will continue to carry out its journalistic duties as it has been doing and will not be forced into submission by these attacks.

Prabir Purkayastha

Editor-in-Chief, Newsclick