UNI office sealed amidst chaos: Journalists allege harassment, police claim ‘due process’
Some journalists claimed that female staff members were manhandled during the process
The sealing of the office of United News of India (UNI), one of India’s oldest news agencies, has sparked widespread concern over press freedom, following allegations of misconduct during the operation.
According to staff members, officials carried out the sealing exercise in a manner that led to the forcible eviction of employees. Several staffers alleged they were not given adequate time to retrieve their personal belongings before being asked to vacate the premises.
Serious allegations have also been levelled against personnel of the Delhi Police.
Some journalists claimed that female staff members were manhandled during the process. Additionally, there were claims that certain police personnel were intoxicated while on duty.
The incident has triggered sharp reactions from media bodies and raised questions about the manner in which actions involving media institutions are conducted, particularly in relation to the safety and dignity of journalists.
However, the police have rejected the allegations, maintaining that due legal process was followed. Officials stated that no action beyond the ambit of the law was taken during the process.
