Price told reporters here that we are aware of the searches of the BBC offices in Delhi by the Indian tax authorities. You should go to the Indian authorities to get information in this regard.
In the midst of the Income Tax Department’s survey campaign against BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation) India, America has said that it freedom of press, supports the importance of universal rights to freedom of expression and religious freedom, which are the basis of democracies around the world, including in India. US State Department spokesman Ned Price gave this statement at a time when the Income Tax Department started a survey campaign at the BBC offices in Delhi and Mumbai and two other related places under investigation. This campaign continued on Wednesday for the second day as well.
Support for a free press around the world
Price told reporters here that we are aware of the searches of the BBC offices in Delhi by the Indian tax authorities. You should go to the Indian authorities to get information in this regard. Price said that we support the importance of a free press around the world.
Freedom of expression
We emphasize the importance of freedom of expression and freedom of religion and belief as human rights that contribute to the strengthening of democracies around the world. It has strengthened democracy here in this country. It has strengthened the democracy of India. He said that these universal rights are the basis of democracies around the world.
against the spirit or values of democracy
When asked whether this step is against the spirit or values of democracy, Price said that I cannot say so. We are aware of the facts of this search (survey operation), but I am not in a position to pass any judgement. The Income Tax department’s surprise action came weeks after the BBC aired a two-part documentary India: The Modi Question. Tax officials said the survey was carried out to investigate issues related to international taxation and transfer pricing of BBC subsidiaries.
Notice to BBC
He alleged that notices were given to BBC in the past but it did not pay heed to it and did not comply and diverted a significant part of its profits. As part of the survey drive, the Income Tax Department only inspects the business premises of the company and does not raid the residences and other places of its promoters or directors.
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