CBI searches NewsClick founder’s home, office, to probe foreign funding allegations

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has registered an FIR into the alleged violation of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) by the news portal NewsClick.

The probe agency on Wednesday also carried out searches at two locations as they launched the probe. A team of agency officials searched the residence and office of NewsClick founder Prabir Purkayastha, who was recently arrested by the Delhi Police in a case under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act, they said.

Investigative agencies allege that the portal received foreign funds in violation of the FCRA regulations.

According to the Delhi Police FIR, their investigations found that a large amount of funds was fraudulently infused into NewsClick by an active member of the propaganda department of the Communist Party of China, Neville Roy Singham, to “disrupt the sovereignty of India” and cause disaffection against the country.

The allegations have been denied by the portal.

Days ago, Purkayastha was arrested by the Delhi Police in connection with a case filed under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). He was arrested following a day-long simultaneous raids at premises of more than 45 people connected with the news portal.

On Tuesday, Purkayastha and human resources department head Amit Chakravarty of NewsClick, were sent to judicial custody by a Delhi court for 10 days.

So far, NewsClick is being investigated by the CBI, the Enforcement Directorate, the Income Tax department and Delhi Police. The Police had also sealed NewsClick’s office in Delhi.