New Delhi, Mar 20: The office of United News of India (UNI), one of the country’s oldest news agencies, was sealed by authorities, triggering a controversy after journalists alleged harassment and procedural lapses during the operation.
Staff members claimed that officials carried out the sealing exercise in a manner that led to the forcible eviction of employees from the premises.
Several employees alleged they were not given sufficient time to collect their personal belongings before being asked to vacate.
Serious allegations were also levelled against personnel involved in the operation. Some journalists claimed that female staff members were manhandled during the process.
There were also allegations that certain police personnel were under the influence of alcohol while on duty.
The incident has drawn sharp reactions from sections of the media fraternity, with concerns being raised over the handling of actions involving media organisations and the safety and dignity of journalists.
However, the police have denied all allegations of misconduct. Officials said the sealing was carried out in accordance with due legal procedure and maintained that no excesses were committed during the exercise.
Authorities have not disclosed further details regarding the reasons for the sealing of the premises.
