The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has reportedly arrested Bahubali Shah, one of the owners of Gujarat Samachar, a leading Gujarati daily newspaper.

The arrest comes reportedly on the back of an Income Tax raid and subsequent ED searches at the publication’s offices and related locations. 

According to multiple media reports, Bahubali was taken to hospital for a check up following the arrest after his health deteriorated, leading to him being admitted into a hospital.

Founded in 1932, Gujarat Samachar is one of the largest circulated vernacular dailies in Gujarat and is jointly managed by Bahubali Shah and his brother Shreyansh Shah, who serves as the managing editor. 

The anti-money laundering agency has not yet issued any statement about the reasons behind the arrest.

The arrest of the media baron associated with a publication known for its 'anti-establishment' stance has intensified concerns over press freedom and the alleged use of investigative agencies to target media outlets critical of the government.