Stop Silencing Independent Journalism: Civil Society Stands with The Wire

Press Release

New Delhi | 23.08.2025

A broad spectrum of civil society voices has come together to strongly oppose the latest attempt to intimidate independent journalism in India. In a joint statement signed by 1,342 individuals, writers, academics, activists, and public figures have expressed grave concern over the Assam Police’s targeting of senior journalists Siddharth Vardarajan, Karan Thapar, and the news portal The Wire.

“This latest action represents a disturbing attempt to silence one of the last remaining independent voices in Indian journalism,” the statement noted.

The signatories include, Arun Kumar, Economist; E A S Sarma, former senior bureaucrat; Jayati Ghosh, Economist; Lalita Ramdas, peace activist; Dinesh Abrol, Delhi Science Forum; Anand Patwardhan, filmmaker; Parakala Prabhakar, Economist; Thomas Franco, People First; and Nikhil Dey, Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan.

The signatories pointed out that pursuing sedition charges despite the Supreme Court’s earlier protection in a similar case sets a dangerous precedent. They also highlighted the denial of due process, where neither a copy of the FIR nor details of the alleged offence were initially shared with the journalists concerned. “Such disregard for law and legal procedure undermines the very institutions tasked with protecting citizens’ rights,” the statement warned.

Underscoring the larger implications for democracy, the civil society members reiterated that an independent press remains central to accountability and public debate. “In an era where social media enables the unchecked spread of false and misleading information, independent media plays an essential role in informing the public, fostering reasoned debate, and resisting the dangers of narrow nationalism, bigotry, and discriminatory and authoritarian narratives,” the statement added.

The statement also saluted the courage of The Wire and its journalists for upholding professional ethics despite repeated pressures. It concluded with a categorical demand: “The government of Assam must withdraw sedition and other charges immediately. We stand in full solidarity with Siddharth Vardarajan, Karan Thapar, and all journalists working to defend truth and free expression.”

Read the statement here: Civil Society Stands in Solidarity with Siddharth Vardarajan, Karan Thapar and The Wire