WATCH: US official gives handful of suggestion to Pak journo for seeking response on surveys at BBC offices in India

The United States gave handful of suggestion to a Pakistan journalist when latter sough response on ‘searches’ conducted in the BBC office in Delhi and Mumbai, by India’s Income Tax department.

In response, US State department spokesperson redirected Pakistan journalist to refer the Government of India’ for information on the searches by reiterating that US ‘supports the importance of free press around the world.’   

“We are aware of the search at the BBC offices in Delhi. We continue to highlight the importance of freedom of expression, freedom of religion or belief. As human rights, that contribute to the strengthening of democracy here in this country, in India and in our fellow democracies around the world,” Spokesperson Ned Price said.

The I-T department carries out a survey operation at BBC officers to investigate an alleged tax evasion case. The government officials alleged that BCCI was ‘defiant and non-compliant’ even after being served notices in the past.

While Congress claimed that raids on BBC officers are just a ‘retaliation’ after BBC released documentary on 2002 Gujarat riots, BBC assured that its ‘fully cooperating’ with the IT officials.