The Free Press

Prabir Purkayastha, the founder of Newsclick, was arrested in October 2023 under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act, accused of receiving Chinese funding for anti-national propaganda, just as he had written about the current emergency-like situation in India in his book. His earlier arrest during the 1975 Emergency was a case of mistaken identity, showcasing the stark contrast between the two political climates. The current government's tightening grip on media freedoms has drawn comparisons to past oppressive regimes, with journalists facing intimidation and censorship. Meanwhile, the political landscape in Bangladesh has shifted dramatically, leading to the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after widespread protests against her authoritarian rule. The protests, initially sparked by a controversial job reservation system, highlight the dangers of long-term power without accountability. As both India and Bangladesh grapple with issues of governance and civil liberties, the implications of these developments will resonate across the region.