The prosecution sought 10 days of police custody of Kerala-based freelance journalist Rejaz M Sheeba Sydeek but the NIA court has granted custody only till May 18.
TNM, 16 May 2025 : The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has taken over the investigation into cases against Kerala-based independent journalist Rejaz M Sheeba Sydeek, who is currently in police custody for alleged links to banned terrorist organisations. During a hearing on Thursday, May 15, the Maharashtra ATS informed the special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court that they have invoked Sections 38 and 39 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) against the journalist.
Investigators have alleged that he has links to banned organisations including Hizbul Mujahideen, Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF), and CPI (Maoist).
Rejaz, known for his incisive reporting on human rights violations, and is associated with Democratic Students Association (DSA) was arrested on May 7 following the registration of an FIR at Lakadganj police station in Nagpur. He has been accused of raising anti-army slogans and being associated with outlawed extremist groups. The FIR also identifies him as a suspected member of the CPI (Maoist).
Authorities also claimed possession of photographic evidence allegedly showing Rejaz handling firearms. He now faces multiple charges under the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, including Section 149 (collecting arms to wage war against the government), Section 192 (provocation with intent to incite a riot), and various sub-clauses under Section 353. Additionally, he has been booked under Section 67 of the Information and Intelligence Act.
The prosecution sought 10 days of police custody to continue the investigation. However, the court criticized the Maharashtra Police for failing to submit seizure documents and the panchnama related to evidence collected from Kerala on May 11. The NIA court has granted custody till May 18.
Rejaz, who holds a degree in social work from Kerala University, has contributed to independent platforms like Maktoob and Counter Currents. His journalism has frequently focused on police brutality, systemic discrimination, and the plight of prisoners in India.
The Nagpur police, who initially handled the case and carried out searches and seizures in Rejaz’s house in Kerala.
