In an interview to the BBC shortly after the Gujarat pogrom of 2002, Chief Minister Narendra Modi admitted his weakness in handling the media. This admission and the subsequent raids on the BBC offices demonstrated Modi’s expertise in managing the media during his prime ministership. The recent arrest of NewsClick founder and editor-in-chief Prabir Purkayastha and Amit Chakravarty under the UAPA is a clear warning to journalists in India. The government’s targeting of smaller news organizations, coupled with harassment and intimidation, pose significant challenges to press freedom. The arrest is indicative of an undeclared emergency and a growing state of media capture in the country. The incident also raises questions about the government’s intent and its impact on India’s standing in the World Press Freedom index. As journalism comes under attack, it is crucial to reflect on the implications for democracy and the need to protect press freedom in India.