Jammu, November 20 — Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Singh Choudhary has said that those publishing the truth should not be subjected to pressure, following the recent raid by the State Investigation Agency (SIA) on the office of the Kashmir Times in Jammu.
Speaking to reporters, Choudhary stressed that the role of the press is vital in a democracy and cautioned against actions that could be perceived as attempts to silence independent voices. He noted that any investigation must be based on evidence and due process rather than political motives.
The SIA had raided the newspaper’s Residency Road office on Thursday, recovering cartridges of AK rifles, pistol rounds, and grenade pins during the search. Officials said the raid was conducted after a case was registered against the publication and its promoters for allegedly promoting activities against the country.
Choudhary emphasised that while law enforcement agencies have the right to investigate, the media should not be pressurised for carrying out its duty of reporting facts. He added that constructive dialogue and transparency are essential to maintaining public trust.
The incident has reignited debate over press freedom in Jammu and Kashmir, with the Kashmir Times claiming that the raid was politically motivated and aimed at silencing critical journalism. Further investigation into the case is ongoing.
