Ammunition Seized During SIA Raid in Jammu
The State Investigation Agency (SIA) conducted a raid at the Kashmir Times office in Jammu and recovered several items, including AK rifle rounds, pistol cartridges, and three grenade levers. Sources shared these details with CNN-News18. Moreover, the raid took place at the newspaper’s office on Residency Road during an ongoing investigation into alleged content harmful to the country’s sovereignty.
Officials said the SIA registered an FIR against the newspaper for articles that they claim posed a threat to public order. The development marks a new chapter in the growing tension between the publication and authorities. Additionally, the FIR accuses the outlet of publishing material that may have supported disruptive narratives.
The SIA, which handles sensitive terror-related and anti-national cases in Jammu and Kashmir, has carried out several raids in recent months. Moreover, the case involving the Kashmir Times raid has drawn national attention because of the publication’s long history and its stance on press freedom.
Office Sealed Earlier; Newspaper Calls Raids Intimidation
This is not the first time the Kashmir Times has faced administrative action. In October 2020, the J&K Administration sealed its office in Srinagar’s Press Enclave. That move sparked criticism from press bodies and human rights groups. Moreover, the newspaper argued that the action was an attempt to curb independent journalism.
Following the latest raid, Kashmir Times issued a statement condemning the SIA’s actions. The publication said the raids reflect a broader attempt to silence critical voices. Additionally, the statement emphasized that the outlet will continue its work and will not be intimidated by investigative pressure.
“We are being targeted precisely because we continue to do this work,” the statement read. “In an era when critical voices are increasingly scarce, we remain one of the few independent outlets willing to speak truth to power. The accusations levelled against us are designed to intimidate, to delegitimise, and ultimately to silence. We will not be silenced.”
The newspaper also said that it will respond through legal avenues. Moreover, press freedom groups have begun seeking more information about the FIR and the nature of the seized items.
Authorities Investigate Alleged Anti-National Material
Officials familiar with the probe said that the FIR was registered over articles that allegedly promoted content detrimental to national security. However, they did not share details of specific reports under scrutiny. The SIA claims that the recovered ammunition strengthens the suspicion of unlawful activities linked to the investigation. Moreover, the agency said that further forensic examination will be carried out.
Investigators believe that the material recovered could indicate a deeper network. However, no arrests have been made so far. Officials also said that the agency will call several individuals for questioning in the coming days. Moreover, they said that more raids may follow if needed.
Security experts said that the discovery of ammunition inside a media office is unusual. However, they cautioned that all recovered items must be tested for fingerprints and ballistic traces before drawing conclusions. Additionally, legal experts noted that the case will likely move through both criminal and media-related legal channels.
Press Freedom Concerns Grow Amid Expanding Raids
The raid has once again sparked debate on press freedom in Jammu and Kashmir. Several journalist groups said that the situation raises concerns about shrinking space for independent reporting. Moreover, they said that accusations of “anti-national” reporting must be handled with transparency and due process.
The Kashmir Times has been a prominent media outlet in the region for decades. Additionally, it has often expressed views critical of government policies. Supporters say this makes it vulnerable to state pressure. However, officials reject these concerns and argue that security agencies act only on evidence-based intelligence.
Human rights defenders say the case highlights the need for a balanced approach. Moreover, they said that criminal investigations must not undermine the role of free media. They also urged authorities to maintain fairness and prevent misuse of legal provisions.
As the investigation progresses, both sides continue to defend their positions. The SIA maintains that the raid was based on credible inputs. Meanwhile, the newspaper says the action is an attack on its independence. Additionally, observers expect more public reactions as new details emerge.