On May 16, 2025, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Bahubali Shah, co-owner of Gujarat Samachar, in a money-laundering investigation. The agency conducted raids at his homes and offices. Shah, 73, was taken into custody after questioning on amassed assets.
Gujarat Samachar began in 1932 and now leads Gujarati dailies. It publishes under Lok Prakashan Ltd, where Shah sits as director and his brother, Shreyansh Shah, serves as managing editor. The ED invoked the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) but gave few details on the alleged offenses.
Within hours, his lawyers secured Shah’s medical checkup. He felt unwell and was admitted briefly. Opposition parties, led by Rahul Gandhi (INC) and Arvind Kejriwal (AAP), condemned the arrest. They accused the central government of using agencies to silence critical newspapers.
This incident marks only the second major crisis for Gujarat Samachar. In 1985, communal riots destroyed its presses. Today’s action raises fresh concerns about press freedom and the reach of investigative agencies in India.
Why This Matters? Gujarat Samachar owner arrested
- Media Independence: A top regional daily now faces legal scrutiny.
- Political Angle: Opposition claims a vendetta against dissenting voices.
- Public Trust: Long-time readers worry about unbiased reporting.
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