Kashmir Times office raided by investigators in Jammu

Founded by journalist Ved Bhasin, the Kashmir Times has stopped publication of its print edition from Jammu for a while now and operates primarily online.

After Bhasin’s death, his daughter Anuradha Bhasin and her husband Prabodh Jamwal had taken over the reins of the newspaper.

However, both of them have moved to the US and have been staying there for some years now. Its website lists Prabodh as editor and Anuradha as managing editor.

According to official sources, the FIR mentions alleged activities and communications that are under scrutiny for “potential threats to the sovereignty and integrity of India”.

The raid started around 6 am, and SIA officials called the newspaper’s manager, Sanjeev Kerni, from his home to open the office.

SIA officials examined documents, digital equipment and other material as part of the investigation.

The agency is likely to question Anuradha, officials said.

Officials said the operation is part of the agency’s continuing action against networks suspected of aiding separatist narratives or unlawful propaganda.

The SIA maintains that no platform – media or otherwise – can be permitted to be used for advancing seditious or anti-national content.