The US has reaffirmed its conviction that "free press strengthens democracy" as a general rule without seeking to impose its views directly on the searches of BBC offices by income tax authorities in Delhi and Mumbai.
"I would need to refer you to Indian authorities for the details of this search," State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said in a response to a question at the daily press briefing.
" Beyond this discrete action, what I'll say more broadly is the general point that I've consistently made in this context, but in a universal context as well: We support the importance of free press around the world. We continue to highlight the importance of freedom of expression and freedom of religion or belief as human rights that contribute to strengthening democracies around the world. It has strengthened this democracy here in this country; it has strengthened India's democracy. These universal rights are the bedrock of democracies around the world."
Pressed further, Price said, "We're aware of the facts of these searches, but I'm just not in a position to offer a judgement."
Delhi court acquits ex-WFI chief Brij Bhushan, Vinod Tomar in sexual harassment case
A Delhi court on Monday acquitted former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) president Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh and former WFI assistant secretary Vinod Tomar in the sexual harassment and intimidation case lodged by several women wrestlers, holding that the prosecution failed to establish the charges beyond reasonable doubt.
Bengal STF arrests second aide of suspected JeM associate Hamim Mondal
The Special Task Force (STF) of West Bengal Police on Monday arrested the second aide of Hamim Mondal, a suspected Jaish‑e‑Mohammed (JeM) associate, who was arrested last week.
PM Modi hails Indian contingent's 'exceptional skill and dedication' after 39-medal haul at CWG 2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday lauded the Indian contingent for its performance at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow, praising the athletes for displaying "exceptional skill and dedication" throughout the Games.
Bihar: Fire breaks out in passenger train at Simri Bakhtiyarpur station, no casualties reported
A massive fire broke out on the Samastipur-Saharsa Passenger train (63344) at Platform No. 2 of Simri Bakhtiyarpur railway station in Bihar's Saharsa district at around 3:25 a.m. on Monday, triggering panic among passengers and railway staff.
Pakistan's Bhatti network targeted families of 6 Bengal ministers through JeM associate's female aide
Shahzad Bhatti Network (SBN), a Pakistan-based terrorist-criminal group, targeted the family members of at least six current members of the West Bengal cabinet through Arpita Sarkar, the female aide of suspected Jaish‑e‑Mohammed (JeM) associate Hamim Mondal, an investigation by the Special Task Force (STF) of the Bengal Police has revealed.
Thousands throng Shiva temples across nation on first Monday of Sawan
People in large numbers thronged Lord Shiva temples across the nation to offer prayers and seek blessings on the occasion of the first Monday of the holy month of Sawan.
CWG 2026: Ahmedabad 2030 takes centre stage as Glasgow signs off with spectacular closing ceremony
There are evenings that are remembered for their grandeur, and then there are evenings that leave an entire arena buzzing with emotion. The closing ceremony of the 2026 Commonwealth Games at Glasgow’s OVO Hydro belonged firmly in the latter category, with India’s spectacular cultural showcase stealing the spotlight and setting the stage for Ahmedabad 2030.
Iran's president says necessary to make US adhere to MoU
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said that Iran must "compel" the United States to remain committed to the peace memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed between the two countries.