Indian Government's Actions Raise Concerns Over Think Tank Independence

Indian civil society is expressing growing apprehension over the government's recent actions, which appear to be aimed at curbing the independence of Think Tanks and repressing critical issues.

One of India's leading public policy Think Tanks, the Center for Policy Research (CPR), has faced significant challenges in recent months. The CPR, renowned for its non-partisan research, found itself unable to meet payroll for its employees for six consecutive months. This predicament arose after the government suspended the CPR's foreign funding license in February, subsequently revoked its tax-exempt status, and froze its bank accounts.

In response, the CPR has initiated legal proceedings in a New Delhi court to challenge these actions. The repercussions have been dire, with at least 80 researchers and staff members leaving, and the organization's research activities grinding to a halt.

Established in 1973, the CPR has long prided itself on being an independent institution, dedicated to conducting research that enriches public discourse on matters affecting life in India.

Yamini Aiyar, the current president and chief executive of the CPR, continues the legacy of her late father, senior opposition party leader Mani Shankar Aiyar. Her leadership underscores the importance of impartiality in shaping public policy discussions.

According to reports, CPR is not the sole think tank grappling with government pressures with the same authorities executing searches at the residences of numerous journalists and commentators 

These actions, which were said to be carried out under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, have raised questions about freedom of the press in the country as independent journalists reported the confiscation of their laptops and phones.