Police search Tarun Behl’s residence; electronic gadgets, documents seized

Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, July 11: Police today conducted searches at the residence of Tarun Behl, owner of a local newspaper, who was earlier arrested and booked under the Official Secrets Act (OSA) for allegedly circulating secret information in WhatsApp groups. During the search, several electronic gadgets and documents were seized.
According to a police official, the searches were carried out at Behl’s residence in Channi Himmat in Jammu and at a school in Chowadhi district. The searches were part of an investigation into a case registered under the Official Secrets Act, 1923 and Section 49/353 of the BNSS at the Channi Himmat police station.
The police official said Behl was arrested for extracting and sharing confidential information, which is considered highly harmful to state security. He added that Behl’s actions were aimed at spreading discontent in the government for personal gain.
Police also accused Behl of inciting individuals to commit crimes against various classes and social groups.
He added that search warrants were issued in court and searches were conducted at Behl’s residence and the British International School, Chowadhi, in the presence of duty magistrates and independent witnesses, in accordance with due process of law.
Tarun Behl is currently in remand custody for four days.