Punjab HC Takes Strong Exception to Journalist's Arrest for Exposing Real Estate Irregularities
The Punjab & Haryana High Court has sought an explanation from the Punjab Government on the arrest of journalist Rajinder Singh Taggar, who was detained on charges of extortion for publishing news against a real estate owner.
Press FreedomFreedom Of SpeechReal EstateJournalismPunjab Haryana High CourtReal Estate NewsJul 01, 2024
Taggar was arrested on a complaint filed by N.K. Sharma, who alleged that the journalist made videos with false propaganda that his flats and projects were built on government land with the intention to defame, cause financial loss, and extortion. However, Senior Advocate R.S. Bains argued that Taggar is a journalist who published a news item highlighting the wrongful means adopted by N.K. Sharma Enterprises Pvt. Ltd. and Savitri Green-2 Projects, which are being brought up by a politician-cum-renowned builder in District Mohali, usurping government land.
The real owners of the land registered an FIR against N.K. Sharma, who, along with his family members, is alleged to have constituted a fake trust in the name and style of Darbari Lal Foundation International Education Society, encroaching upon 5 bighas and 18 biswas of land that vests in the government.
The senior advocate contended that Taggar is being used as an arm-twisting mode to curb the voice of people through the media at the hands of an influential complainant. Considering the submissions, Justice Moudgil granted interim bail to the journalist.
The court observed that Taggar is behind bars for one month and 23 days, merely for publishing a news item against the complainant and its enterprises, infringing his right to life and liberty in a socialistic welfare state. The matter is listed for July 29 for further consideration.
Information
The Punjab & Haryana High Court is the common high court for the Indian states of Punjab and Haryana. It has its headquarters in Chandigarh, the capital of both states.
None required in this case, as the article does not mention any company or organization apart from the Punjab & Haryana High Court.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the name of the journalist who was arrested?
Rajinder Singh Taggar
What was the journalist arrested for?
Charges of extortion for publishing news against a real estate owner
Who filed the complaint against the journalist?
N.K. Sharma
What is the name of the projects mentioned in the article?
N.K. Sharma Enterprises Pvt. Ltd. and Savitri Green-2 Projects
When is the next hearing of the case?
July 29
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