The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday arrested Bahubali Shah, co-owner of Gujarat Samachar, the state’s largest-circulated daily, in connection with an ongoing money laundering investigation. Shah is also a director of Lok Prakashan Ltd, which publishes the newspaper and GSTV channel.
Shah, associated with over 15 business ventures, was arrested after a series of ED raids at multiple properties linked to him. Following his arrest, he was hospitalised due to health complications. The ED has not yet issued an official statement explaining the grounds for the arrest.
Shah’s arrest triggered an outcry from opposition parties, including the Congress and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), who accused the BJP-led central government of misusing investigative agencies to intimidate critical media voices.
“The arrest of Bahubali Shah is not just about one person. It’s an attempt to muzzle democracy. When media is silenced, democracy is in danger.”
“This is the BJP’s way of forcing independent media to bend. Gujarat Samachar has been fearless in its critique.”
AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal called the arrest a sign of “BJP’s growing frustration.”
“This is no coincidence. It’s a coordinated attempt to silence those who speak the truth.”
“Gujarat Samachar has been a bold anti-establishment voice. This is what happens to those who expose the emperor’s new clothes.”
Gujarat Congress MLA Jignesh Mevani also weighed in, alleging that the Shah family is being punished for 25 years of fearless reporting.
The developments have brought renewed attention to the role of investigative agencies and press freedom in the country. Meanwhile, Shah’s elder brother Shreyansh Shah, who is the managing editor of Gujarat Samachar, has yet to respond publicly.
