In a dramatic turn of events, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Bahubali Bhai Shah, the co-owner of Gujarat Samachar, Gujarat’s largest-circulated daily newspaper, for his alleged role in a money laundering case. The arrest, made following raids at multiple premises linked to Shah and his business interests, has quickly escalated into a major political flashpoint.
Shah, reportedly associated with over 15 companies, was taken into custody on Friday. He serves as one of the directors of Lok Prakashan Limited, which publishes Gujarat Samachar and operates the GSTV news channel. His brother, Shreyansh Shah, remains the paper’s managing editor.
Following his arrest, Shah’s health reportedly deteriorated, prompting his hospitalisation. The ED has yet to release a detailed statement regarding the charges or the evidence gathered against him.
A Legacy Newspaper, Now in the Crosshairs
Founded over 93 years ago, Gujarat Samachar holds a reputation as one of the oldest and most widely read dailies in the state. Under Bahubali Shah’s leadership, it became known for its unflinching editorial stance, often critical of the ruling establishment. This made the timing of the ED’s action particularly sensitive, given its proximity to IT raids on the group and growing political tension in the state.
Leaders from the Congress and Aam Aadmi Party were quick to denounce the arrest. Rahul Gandhi called it an attempt to “suppress not just the voice of one newspaper but of the entire democracy.” AAP’s Arvind Kejriwal echoed the sentiment, labeling it “a sign of frustration” from the BJP, which “wants to silence every voice that speaks the truth and asks questions.”
The Bigger Picture: Is Media Freedom Under Siege?
The arrest has revived longstanding concerns about the use of central agencies to target media organizations critical of the government. Congress leader Pawan Khera said the arrest reflects “what happens to those who have the guts to say the emperor is naked.”
Gujarat Congress MLA Jignesh Mevani noted that Gujarat Samachar had, for over two decades, consistently published reports that held the government accountable. “Now they are being punished for doing their job,” Mevani said.
As the storm brews, the ED’s silence on the specifics of the case has only fueled speculation and deepened suspicions. While the agency is expected to clarify its position in court, opposition leaders argue the damage to press freedom may already have been done. Bahubali Shah’s arrest isn’t just about money laundering—it’s being widely perceived as a symbol of the widening rift between independent media and state power in India. As the country heads into a crucial electoral cycle, the case is likely to remain a political lightning rod in the national conversation on press freedom.