The Enforcement Directorate arrests Gujarat Samachar owner Bahubali Shah in a money laundering case, sparking political backlash. Congress and AAP allege misuse of central agencies by the BJP to silence independent media voices.

ED Arrests Gujarat Samachar Owner Bahubali Shah in Money Laundering Probe

In a significant development, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) has arrested Bahubali Shah, co-owner of Gujarat Samachar, the largest daily newspaper in Gujarat. Shah was taken into custody on Friday, 16 May 2025, in connection with a high-profile money laundering investigation involving multiple corporate entities.

Raids Across Multiple Locations Lead to Arrest

The ED conducted raids at several locations linked to Shah, who is associated with over 15 business entities. He is also a director at Lok Prakashan Limited, which owns both the Gujarat Samachar and GSTV news channel. His elder brother, Shreyansh Shah, serves as the Managing Editor of the newspaper.

Health Concerns Following Arrest

Shortly after his arrest, Bahubali Shah’s health deteriorated, prompting authorities to admit him to the hospital. As of now, the ED has not released an official statement explaining the basis for the arrest.

Political Backlash: Congress and AAP Condemn BJP

The arrest has triggered a major political storm, with opposition parties, particularly the Indian National Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), accusing the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of using central agencies to suppress critical media voices.

Congress General Secretary K. C. Venugopal stated that the arrest was an attempt by the BJP to intimidate and manipulate independent media into compliance.

“The Gujarat Samachar criticizes the Modi-led BJP government fearlessly. The ED arrest of Bahubali Shah is a tactic to pressure independent voices,” Venugopal tweeted.

Opposition Sees Pattern of Suppression

Opposition leaders noted that the ED and IT department had conducted searches at Gujarat Samachar and GSTV offices within 48 hours prior to the arrest. Former Delhi Chief Minister called the developments a sign of BJP’s discomfort with dissent and vowed that “this dictatorship will soon be overthrown by the people.”

Political Leaders Rally Behind Gujarat Samachar

Senior Congress leader Pawan Khera commented, “This is what happens to those who dare to say the emperor has no clothes.” He emphasized that Gujarat Samachar, a 93-year-old publication, has consistently challenged the establishment and paid the price for its courage.

Jignesh Mevani, Gujarat MLA and Congress State Working President, echoed similar sentiments. He stated that the daily is being targeted due to its long-standing stance against the central government’s policies.

Conclusion: A Growing Debate Over Media Freedom

The arrest of Bahubali Shah has reignited the national conversation around press freedom and political interference in journalism. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how this will impact the relationship between the media and the ruling establishment.