The BBC, the country's public broadcaster, is once again making headlines after claims surfaced that the broadcasters wrote letters to some of their top presenters offering voluntary redundancy as a way to save spending in its news division.

UK: Top BBC news presenters asked to consider voluntary redundancy

Elon Musk clarified that he wasn't aware about BBC's documentary on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and related posts that were taken down by Twitter, but commented on India's strict social media laws.

Elon Musk opens up on BBC documentary ban, calls Indian social media laws 'strict'

<p>India's law enforcement agency, Enforcement Directorate, has registered a case against the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) India news broadcaster for alleged foreign exchange violations, as per reports citing sources.&nbsp;The case was filed under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) two weeks ago. Authorities have been probing BBC India employees with so far six employees being interrogated. It even involves high-level employees of the organization including one of the BBC India directors.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media outlets while quoting an officer reported, “Today, they have called another employee of BBC along with some documents and questioning is still going on."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imran-khan-bushra-bibis-marriage-not-as-per-shariah-law-cleric-581906">Imran Khan, Bushra Bibi's marriage not as per Shariah law: Cleric</a></p>

<p>This comes after India's Income Tax Department carried out tax surveys at BBC offices in Delhi and Mumbai in February. The IT department had reportedly "gathered several evidence" which indicate that "tax has not been paid on certain remittances" which have not been disclosed as income in India by the foreign entities of the group.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These developments also figured during a discussion between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly in early march when Cleverly visited India to attend G20 Foreign Ministers' meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/universal-cure-for-cancer-not-anytime-soon-tumours-have-almost-infinite-ability-to-evolve-research-581982">Universal cure for cancer not anytime soon, tumours have 'almost infinite' ability to evolve: Research</a></p>

<p>Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) in a statement said that the income and profits disclosed by BBC group entities in India are "not commensurate" keeping in mind the scale of their operations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The CBDT further added, "The survey operations also revealed that services of seconded employees have been utilised for which reimbursement has been made by the Indian entity to the foreign entity concerned."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The survey reportedly found several "discrepancies and inconsistencies" with regard to transfer pricing documentation. Such discrepancies relate to the level of relevant Function, Asset and Risk (FAR) analysis, incorrect use of comparables which are applicable to determine the correct Arms Length Price (ALP) and inadequate revenue apportionment, among others.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Prince Harry to attend King Charles Coronation without wife Meghan</strong></p>

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<p>The BBC raids were followed weeks after the UK broadcaster on 17 January released a documentary on the 2002 Gujarat riots titled ‘India: The Modi Question’.&nbsp;Indian government opposed the documentary and ordered curbs on its release on various social media platforms.&nbsp;</p>

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India's law enforcement agency, Enforcement Directorate, has registered a case against the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) India news broadcaster for alleged foreign exchange violations, as per reports citing sources.

India's law enforcement agency, Enforcement Directorate, has registered a case against the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) India news broadcaster for alleged foreign exchange violations, as per reports citing sources. The case was filed under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) two weeks ago. Authorities have been probing BBC India employees with so far six employees being interrogated. It even involves high-level employees of the organization including one of the BBC India directors. Media outlets while quoting an officer reported, “Today, they have called another employee of BBC along with some documents and questioning is still going on." Also Read | Imran Khan, Bushra Bibi's marriage not as per Shariah law: Cleric This comes after India's Income Tax Department carried out tax surveys at BBC offices in Delhi and Mumbai in February. The IT department had reportedly "gathered several evidence" which indicate that "tax has not been paid on certain remittances" which have not been disclosed as income in India by the foreign entities of the group. These developments also figured during a discussion between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly in early march when Cleverly visited India to attend G20 Foreign Ministers' meeting. Also Read | Universal cure for cancer not anytime soon, tumours have 'almost infinite' ability to evolve: Research Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) in a statement said that the income and profits disclosed by BBC group entities in India are "not commensurate" keeping in mind the scale of their operations. The CBDT further added, "The survey operations also revealed that services of seconded employees have been utilised for which reimbursement has been made by the Indian entity to the foreign entity concerned." The survey reportedly found several "discrepancies and inconsistencies" with regard to transfer pricing documentation. Such discrepancies relate to the level of relevant Function, Asset and Risk (FAR) analysis, incorrect use of comparables which are applicable to determine the correct Arms Length Price (ALP) and inadequate revenue apportionment, among others. Watch | Prince Harry to attend King Charles Coronation without wife Meghan × The BBC raids were followed weeks after the UK broadcaster on 17 January released a documentary on the 2002 Gujarat riots titled ‘India: The Modi Question’. Indian government opposed the documentary and ordered curbs on its release on various social media platforms. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India's Enforcement Directorate registers case against BBC India for foreign exchange violations

Social media giant Twitter described the British broadcaster BBC as "government-funded media" on its profile page. Britain's beloved national broadcaster has reached out to Twitter for clarification.

Social media giant Twitter labels BBC as 'government-funded media'

<p>The BBC has abandoned filming of the latest series of motoring program "Top Gear" following an investigation into a December crash that injured former England cricketer Andrew Flintoff, the British broadcaster said on Thursday.</p>

<p>Flintoff, 45, who quit cricket in 2010 and joined Top Gear as a host in 2019, was injured in a car crash during the filming of an episode in December and was said to be "lucky to be alive."</p>

<p>The Times newspaper reported, citing insiders, that Flintoff was quitting as co-presenter of "Top Gear," one of BBC's most successful shows. Flintoff co-hosted the show along with Paddy McGuinness and Chris Harris.</p>

<p>"Under the circumstances, we feel it would be inappropriate to resume making series 34," the BBC said, adding a decision on how best to continue would be made later this year.</p>

<p>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sachin-messi-waited-long-for-world-cup-title-so-be-patient-indias-chance-will-come-feels-ravi-shastri-575247">Sachin, Messi waited long for World Cup title, so be patient, India's chance will come, feels Ravi Shastri</a></p>

<p>The broadcaster said they have apologised to Flintoff, who is widely known for his heroics in the 2005 Ashes series against Australia, a highlight in his cricketing career that earned him cult status.</p>

<p>The English cricketer was the most expensive purchase in the 2009 Indian Premier League (IPL) along with his compatriot Kevin Pietersen. Purchased for Rs 7.5 crore, Flintoff was acquired by the Chennai Super Kings and played in the 2010 edition of the IPL under the leadership of MS Dhoni.</p>

<p>Flintoff has joined former Formula One driver Michael Schumacher as athletes who suffered life-threatening injuries while staying away from the sports. Schumacher is still on a life-supporting system with medical updates few and limited.</p>

<p>On the flip side, Flintoff missed out on the England team's 2010 T20 World Cup success despite being in good touch. The former star's absence in the 2010 event saw him miss out on England's golden achievement while they would follow that success with another pair of silverware in the form of the 2019 ODI World Cup and the 2022 T20 World Cup.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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The BBC has abandoned filming of the latest series of motoring program "Top Gear" following an investigation into a December crash that injured former England cricketer Andrew Flintoff, the British broadcaster said on Thursday.

The BBC has abandoned filming of the latest series of motoring program "Top Gear" following an investigation into a December crash that injured former England cricketer Andrew Flintoff, the British broadcaster said on Thursday. Flintoff, 45, who quit cricket in 2010 and joined Top Gear as a host in 2019, was injured in a car crash during the filming of an episode in December and was said to be "lucky to be alive." The Times newspaper reported, citing insiders, that Flintoff was quitting as co-presenter of "Top Gear," one of BBC's most successful shows. Flintoff co-hosted the show along with Paddy McGuinness and Chris Harris. "Under the circumstances, we feel it would be inappropriate to resume making series 34," the BBC said, adding a decision on how best to continue would be made later this year. ALSO READ | Sachin, Messi waited long for World Cup title, so be patient, India's chance will come, feels Ravi Shastri The broadcaster said they have apologised to Flintoff, who is widely known for his heroics in the 2005 Ashes series against Australia, a highlight in his cricketing career that earned him cult status. The English cricketer was the most expensive purchase in the 2009 Indian Premier League (IPL) along with his compatriot Kevin Pietersen. Purchased for Rs 7.5 crore, Flintoff was acquired by the Chennai Super Kings and played in the 2010 edition of the IPL under the leadership of MS Dhoni. Flintoff has joined former Formula One driver Michael Schumacher as athletes who suffered life-threatening injuries while staying away from the sports. Schumacher is still on a life-supporting system with medical updates few and limited. On the flip side, Flintoff missed out on the England team's 2010 T20 World Cup success despite being in good touch. The former star's absence in the 2010 event saw him miss out on England's golden achievement while they would follow that success with another pair of silverware in the form of the 2019 ODI World Cup and the 2022 T20 World Cup. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Andrew Flintoff accident: BBC halts 'Top Gear' filming following former cricketer's December crash

<p>British broadcaster BBC has urged its staff to delete TikTok from corporate mobile phones due to privacy and security concerns about the Chinese-owned video sharing app.&nbsp;</p>

<p>UK-based media outlets reported that BBC staff received a guidance on Sunday, which read: "We don't recommend installing TikTok on a BBC corporate device unless there is a justified business reason. If you do not need TikTok for business reasons, TikTok should be deleted."&nbsp;</p>

<p>This comes days after the UK announced a ban on TikTok on government devices. The decision was in line with similar actions by European Union, the United States and New Zealand. India had entirely banned the app.</p>

<p>UK Cabinet Office minister Oliver Dowden told parliament, "We are going to ban the use of TikTok on government devices. We will do so with immediate effect."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/tiktoks-lesser-known-sibling-capcut-making-waves-in-video-editing-world-573795">TikTok’s lesser-known sibling, CapCut, making waves in US. But is it safe?</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>There are growing concerns over data security risks as several experts pointed out that the app might be used to promote pro-China views and illegally gather data of users.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted, the BBC guidance further noted: "The decision is based on concerns raised by government authorities worldwide regarding data privacy and security."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;After UK, New Zealand to ban TIKTOK app on government devices&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>It is also reported that the broadcaster has asked the employees who have TikTok on their phones and use the same device for official work, to reach out to the information security team of the company to get the details and discuss "the type of BBC information that you are working with".&nbsp;</p>

<p>As quoted, a BBC spokesperson said: "The BBC takes the safety and security of our systems, data and people incredibly seriously. We constantly review activity on third-party platforms – including TikTok – and will continue to do so."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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British broadcaster BBC has urged its staff to delete TikTok from corporate mobile phones due to privacy and security concerns about the Chinese-owned video sharing app.

British broadcaster BBC has urged its staff to delete TikTok from corporate mobile phones due to privacy and security concerns about the Chinese-owned video sharing app. UK-based media outlets reported that BBC staff received a guidance on Sunday, which read: "We don't recommend installing TikTok on a BBC corporate device unless there is a justified business reason. If you do not need TikTok for business reasons, TikTok should be deleted." This comes days after the UK announced a ban on TikTok on government devices. The decision was in line with similar actions by European Union, the United States and New Zealand. India had entirely banned the app. UK Cabinet Office minister Oliver Dowden told parliament, "We are going to ban the use of TikTok on government devices. We will do so with immediate effect." ALSO READ | TikTok’s lesser-known sibling, CapCut, making waves in US. But is it safe? There are growing concerns over data security risks as several experts pointed out that the app might be used to promote pro-China views and illegally gather data of users. As quoted, the BBC guidance further noted: "The decision is based on concerns raised by government authorities worldwide regarding data privacy and security." WATCH | After UK, New Zealand to ban TIKTOK app on government devices × It is also reported that the broadcaster has asked the employees who have TikTok on their phones and use the same device for official work, to reach out to the information security team of the company to get the details and discuss "the type of BBC information that you are working with". As quoted, a BBC spokesperson said: "The BBC takes the safety and security of our systems, data and people incredibly seriously. We constantly review activity on third-party platforms – including TikTok – and will continue to do so." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

BBC asks staff to delete TikTok from mobile phones over privacy and security concerns

<p>Former England football captain Gary Lineker returned to host the BBC's flagship soccer show on Saturday, a week after his suspension for criticising government immigration policy caused a row over the broadcaster's impartiality rules. BBC managers reversed their decision to suspend Lineker, the broadcaster's highest-paid presenter, after his colleagues refused to work in solidarity last weekend, forcing it to air soccer matches without normal commentary.</p>

<p>The controversy shook the public broadcaster, which is funded by a levy on nearly all British households with televisions, and which often faces accusations of bias from across the political spectrum.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-cristiano-ronaldos-brilliant-free-kick-goal-inspires-al-nassrs-win-vs-abha-in-saudi-pro-league-573537">Watch: Cristiano Ronaldo's BRILLIANT free-kick goal inspires Al Nassr's win vs Abha in Saudi Pro League</a></p>

<p>"It was a really difficult situation for everyone concerned," Lineker's co-presenter Alan Shearer said in a short statement to viewers before the start of the BBC's broadcast of an FA Cup quarter-final game between Burnley and Manchester City. "And through no fault of their own, some really great people on TV and in radio were put in an impossible situation, and that wasn't fair. So it's good to get back to some sort of normality and be talking about football again," Shearer said.</p>

<p>Lineker said: "I absolutely echo those sentiments."</p>

<p>Lineker, who has hosted refugees in his home, had been suspended on March 10 for a tweet that called government policy on migration "immeasurably cruel" and compared language used to support it to "that used by Germany in the 30s".</p>

<p>BBC news reporters and current affairs presenters are required to avoid making politically partisan statements, though those guidelines do not generally apply to other staff or to presenters on freelance contracts such as Lineker.</p>

<p>He refused to apologise for his tweet and the opposition Labour Party accused the broadcaster of caving in to government pressure by suspending him. After reinstating Lineker, the BBC said it would review how its impartiality guidelines applied to freelance presenters' use of social media.</p>

<p>Reducing illegal migration is one of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's top policy goals for 2023.</p>

<p>More than 45,000 people - mostly young men from Albania, Afghanistan, Iran and Iraq - crossed the Channel in small boats last year, preferring to seek asylum in Britain rather than other countries they had travelled through in Europe.</p>

<p>Interior minister Suella Braverman has described these arrivals as an "invasion" and is seeking to deport thousands of migrants to Rwanda.</p>


Former England football captain Gary Lineker returned to host the BBC's flagship soccer show on Saturday, a week after his suspension for criticising government immigration policy caused a row over the broadcaster's impartiality rules.

Former England football captain Gary Lineker returned to host the BBC's flagship soccer show on Saturday, a week after his suspension for criticising government immigration policy caused a row over the broadcaster's impartiality rules. BBC managers reversed their decision to suspend Lineker, the broadcaster's highest-paid presenter, after his colleagues refused to work in solidarity last weekend, forcing it to air soccer matches without normal commentary. The controversy shook the public broadcaster, which is funded by a levy on nearly all British households with televisions, and which often faces accusations of bias from across the political spectrum. ALSO READ: Watch: Cristiano Ronaldo's BRILLIANT free-kick goal inspires Al Nassr's win vs Abha in Saudi Pro League "It was a really difficult situation for everyone concerned," Lineker's co-presenter Alan Shearer said in a short statement to viewers before the start of the BBC's broadcast of an FA Cup quarter-final game between Burnley and Manchester City. "And through no fault of their own, some really great people on TV and in radio were put in an impossible situation, and that wasn't fair. So it's good to get back to some sort of normality and be talking about football again," Shearer said. Lineker said: "I absolutely echo those sentiments." Lineker, who has hosted refugees in his home, had been suspended on March 10 for a tweet that called government policy on migration "immeasurably cruel" and compared language used to support it to "that used by Germany in the 30s". BBC news reporters and current affairs presenters are required to avoid making politically partisan statements, though those guidelines do not generally apply to other staff or to presenters on freelance contracts such as Lineker. He refused to apologise for his tweet and the opposition Labour Party accused the broadcaster of caving in to government pressure by suspending him. After reinstating Lineker, the BBC said it would review how its impartiality guidelines applied to freelance presenters' use of social media. Reducing illegal migration is one of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's top policy goals for 2023. More than 45,000 people - mostly young men from Albania, Afghanistan, Iran and Iraq - crossed the Channel in small boats last year, preferring to seek asylum in Britain rather than other countries they had travelled through in Europe. Interior minister Suella Braverman has described these arrivals as an "invasion" and is seeking to deport thousands of migrants to Rwanda.

Gary Lineker returns to BBC to host famous football show one week after serving suspension

Gary Lineker will return as presenter of flagship BBC football show Match of the Day, the broadcaster said Monday. WION brings you more insights.

BBC reverses Gary Lineker's suspension, will return as MOTD presenter

BBC has confirmed that Gary Lineker will return as the presenter of their flagship show 'Match of the Day', ending a crisis sparked by his criticism of the UK government’s new asylum policy.

Gary Lineker to return to Match of the Day after BBC suspension

Gary Lineker will return as presenter of flagship BBC football show Match of the Day, the broadcaster said Monday.

BBC: Gary Lineker to return as presenter to 'Match of the Day'

Gary Lineker to return to MOTD after BBC backs down

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news and top headlines from all across the globe.

WION Speed News: Gary Lineker to return as BBC's MOTD presenter

<p>Gary Lineker will return as presenter of flagship BBC football show Match of the Day, the broadcaster said Monday, ending a crisis sparked by his criticism of the UK government's new asylum policy.</p>

<p>"Gary is a valued part of the BBC and I know how much the BBC means to Gary, and I look forward to him presenting our coverage this coming weekend," said BBC director-general Tim Davie.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ukraines-lesia-tsurenko-withdraws-from-match-vs-belarusian-aryna-sabalenka-citing-personal-reasons-571503">Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko withdraws from match vs Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka citing 'personal reasons'</a></p>

<p>The former England footballer was removed after using Twitter to compare the language used to launch the new policy to the rhetoric of Nazi-era Germany. Fellow presenters, pundits and commentators then refused to work over the weekend in support, throwing the broadcaster's sports coverage into disarray.</p>

<p>Lineker tweeted on Monday that "I cannot wait to get back in the MOTD chair on Saturday.</p>

<p>"However difficult the last few days have been, it simply doesn't compare to having to flee your home from persecution or war to seek refuge in a land far away," he added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">After a surreal few days, I’m delighted that we have navigated a way through this. I want to thank you all for the incredible support, particularly my colleagues at BBC Sport, for the remarkable show of solidarity. Football is a team game but their backing was overwhelming. 1/4</p>
— Gary Lineker 💙💛 (@GaryLineker) <a href="https://twitter.com/GaryLineker/status/1635220356737937413?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Davie apologised for the disruption to the service, saying he recognised the "potential confusion caused by the grey areas of the BBC's social media guidance.</p>

<p>"Impartiality is important to the BBC. That is a difficult balancing act to get right where people are subject to different contracts and on air positions, and with different audience and social media profiles," he said.</p>

<p>An independent review into the guidance will be conducted, including how it applies to freelancers such as Lineker, he added.</p>

<p><em>More to follow...</em></p>


Gary Lineker will return as presenter of flagship BBC football show Match of the Day, the broadcaster said Monday, ending a crisis sparked by his criticism of the UK government's new asylum policy.

Gary Lineker will return as presenter of flagship BBC football show Match of the Day, the broadcaster said Monday, ending a crisis sparked by his criticism of the UK government's new asylum policy. "Gary is a valued part of the BBC and I know how much the BBC means to Gary, and I look forward to him presenting our coverage this coming weekend," said BBC director-general Tim Davie. ALSO READ: Ukraine's Lesia Tsurenko withdraws from match vs Belarusian Aryna Sabalenka citing 'personal reasons' The former England footballer was removed after using Twitter to compare the language used to launch the new policy to the rhetoric of Nazi-era Germany. Fellow presenters, pundits and commentators then refused to work over the weekend in support, throwing the broadcaster's sports coverage into disarray. Lineker tweeted on Monday that "I cannot wait to get back in the MOTD chair on Saturday. "However difficult the last few days have been, it simply doesn't compare to having to flee your home from persecution or war to seek refuge in a land far away," he added. After a surreal few days, I’m delighted that we have navigated a way through this. I want to thank you all for the incredible support, particularly my colleagues at BBC Sport, for the remarkable show of solidarity. Football is a team game but their backing was overwhelming. 1/4 — Gary Lineker 💙💛 (@GaryLineker) March 13, 2023 × Davie apologised for the disruption to the service, saying he recognised the "potential confusion caused by the grey areas of the BBC's social media guidance. "Impartiality is important to the BBC. That is a difficult balancing act to get right where people are subject to different contracts and on air positions, and with different audience and social media profiles," he said. An independent review into the guidance will be conducted, including how it applies to freelancers such as Lineker, he added. More to follow...

Gary Lineker returns to hosting BBC's Match of the Day after Twitter row

Britain's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said a row between the BBC and football presenter Gary Lineker over Lineker's criticism of government migration policy was a matter for the broadcaster, as the dispute threatened to trigger a crisis at the corporation.

Mutiny at the BBC: Lineker row causes mounting crisis at UK broadcaster

The chairman of BBC is under growing pressure to resign. He has come under criticism for failing to be open about his links to Boris Johnson and staying silent on the Gary Lineker crisis.

Impartiality row leads to fresh calls for BBC chairman to resign

<p>Who would have thought that an innocuous, fun, not-taking-itself-too-seriously show titled BBC Match of the Day (MOTD) would one day shape the politics of the UK and put perhaps, one of the biggest broadcasters in the world in a pickle?&nbsp;</p>

<p>BBC, a widely popular journalistic institution is currently battling to save its face. Ever since former English striker-turned-pundit Gary Lineker was suspended from the hosting duties of MOTD, the cauldron of controversy has been simmering high in the UK and across the world.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Saturday's Premier League Match Day 27 action on BBC, usually a colourful affair, wore a muted look. With big-ticket teams like Liverpool, Chelsea and Tottenham in action, the football faithful would have liked to tune in to their routine MOTD programming, hosted by Lineker and surrounded by heavyweights Alan Shearer and Ian Wright.</p>

<p>But 24 hours earlier, in what can only be attributed to a brain fade moment, BBC thought it to be a prudent decision to axe one of its most recognisable faces for putting forth his piece of mind on a social media post.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lineker, like many, did not agree with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's highly controversial 'Illegal Migration Bill' that attempts to curb the migration issue by ferrying illegal aliens to third countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lineker compared the tone taken by the Tories to that of the Nazis who believed in racial purity and looked down upon anyone other than the pure Aryan race. Though extreme in magnitude, Lineker's was an opinion - an opinion that any individual has the right to exercise.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">There is no huge influx. We take far fewer refugees than other major European countries. This is just an immeasurably cruel policy directed at the most vulnerable people in language that is not dissimilar to that used by Germany in the 30s, and I’m out of order?</p>
— Gary Lineker 💙💛 (@GaryLineker) <a href="https://twitter.com/GaryLineker/status/1633111662352891908?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>With Lineker not in the fray, BBC looked for alternatives to go ahead with the show but soon found itself in a quandary. Lineker's peers and compatriots joined him in showing solidarity and decided to boycott MOTD.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Everybody knows what Match of the Day means to me, but I’ve told the BBC I won’t be doing it tomorrow. Solidarity,” wrote former Arsenal star Ian Wright on Twitter.</p>

<p>“I have informed the BBC that I won’t be appearing on MOTD tomorrow night," added Premier League's top goalscorer Alan Shearer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Consequently, the 80-minute primetime BBC1 show was reduced to a 20-minute highlights package with no punditry or analysis. A simple highlight package was played that comically did not have the commentator's audio as the BBC did not have the right to Premier League’s ‘World Feed’.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-football-focus-final-score-shows-on-bbc-as-presenters-go-off-air-on-saturday-to-support-gary-lineker-571000"><strong>ALSO READ | No Football Focus, Final Score shows on BBC as presenters go off air on Saturday to support Gary Lineker</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>BBC and its ambivalent freedom of speech position</strong></h2>

<p>After Lineker was benched, BBC issued a statement where it said the ex-footballer was told not to take sides on political issues or controversies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have said that he should keep well away from taking sides on party political issues or political controversies," read the statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the statement exposed the BBC's partisan approach and rather ambivalent stance regarding freedom of speech.</p>

<p>Lineker was allowed to espouse a lengthy monologue against Qatar during last year's FIFA World Cup. Before the WC kick-off, the 62-year-old gave his piece of mind and called out Qatar for its dodgy human rights record and slated FIFA for trying to silence them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mutiny-at-bbc-after-anchor-pulled-from-football-show-571011"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Mutiny at BBC after anchor pulled from football show</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mutiny-at-bbc-after-anchor-pulled-from-football-show-571011/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p><br />
At the time, Lineker, representing BBC, took a clear stance, dipping his hands in political controversy and yet the broadcaster did not find it going against its own advisory. In fact, BBC, with its holier-than-thou attitude, refused to air the opening and closing ceremony of the World Cup.</p>

<h2><strong>BBC and Tory connection</strong></h2>

<p>Thus, the question begs itself - what has changed in the last few months that BBC is now going after its own? The answer is rather controversial and one that may not be to the liking of those who have adored BBC's journalistic credibility.&nbsp;</p>

<p>BBC's top hierarchy has cultivated a deep relationship with the Conservative Party. A media organisation is supposed to be non-partisan, neutral and credible - at least on paper, if not in the realms of reality.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the current BBC director Richard Sharp is known for his sharp (no pun intended) right-wing leaning. Sharp has reportedly donated more than £400,000 since the turn of the century to the Conservative Party.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Moreover, the BBC chairperson is currently under investigation after it was revealed that he helped former prime minister Boris Johnson secure a loan of £800,000.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The former Goldman Sachs manager reportedly oversaw the work of Rishi Sunak during his early days in the finance industry - thereby leading to accusations of conflict of interest. He is also the director of Centre for Policy Studies - a right-wing think tank that has accused the BBC of harbouring left-wing bias. &nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-detain-rishi-sunak-defends-new-bill-for-crackdown-on-illegal-immigrants-570071"><strong>Read more:&nbsp;'We will detain': UK PM Rishi Sunak defends new bill for crackdown on illegal immigrants</strong></a></p>

<p>After taking over the top BBC post, Sharp, in an interview openly stated that BBC had a 'liberal bias' and that “the institution is fighting against it”.</p>

<p>The Tory links do not stop here. Sir Robbie Gibb, director of communications to former PM Theresa May currently sits on the BBC board. Gibb was appointed to the position by former PM Boris Johnson and has played a key part in the establishment of the right-wing channel GB News.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The overall perception due to such connections is that BBC surrendered to the demands of the Tory leaders currently sitting in 10, Downing Street. Once such a perception festers, it can spell doom for a broadcaster, however big in scale they may be.&nbsp;</p>

<p>We live in a 24-hour news cycle where such incidents are often forgotten on a whim. However, the intimate connection of football and politics, in this particular case may not allow BBC to wriggle out of the mess easily. As for Lineker, his superb punditry skills may not allow him to be without an employer for long.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.</strong></em></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Who would have thought that an innocuous, fun, not-taking-itself-too-seriously show titled BBC Match of the Day (MOTD) would one day shape the politics of the UK and put perhaps, one of the biggest broadcasters in the world in a pickle?

Who would have thought that an innocuous, fun, not-taking-itself-too-seriously show titled BBC Match of the Day (MOTD) would one day shape the politics of the UK and put perhaps, one of the biggest broadcasters in the world in a pickle? BBC, a widely popular journalistic institution is currently battling to save its face. Ever since former English striker-turned-pundit Gary Lineker was suspended from the hosting duties of MOTD, the cauldron of controversy has been simmering high in the UK and across the world. Saturday's Premier League Match Day 27 action on BBC, usually a colourful affair, wore a muted look. With big-ticket teams like Liverpool, Chelsea and Tottenham in action, the football faithful would have liked to tune in to their routine MOTD programming, hosted by Lineker and surrounded by heavyweights Alan Shearer and Ian Wright. But 24 hours earlier, in what can only be attributed to a brain fade moment, BBC thought it to be a prudent decision to axe one of its most recognisable faces for putting forth his piece of mind on a social media post. Lineker, like many, did not agree with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's highly controversial 'Illegal Migration Bill' that attempts to curb the migration issue by ferrying illegal aliens to third countries. Lineker compared the tone taken by the Tories to that of the Nazis who believed in racial purity and looked down upon anyone other than the pure Aryan race. Though extreme in magnitude, Lineker's was an opinion - an opinion that any individual has the right to exercise. There is no huge influx. We take far fewer refugees than other major European countries. This is just an immeasurably cruel policy directed at the most vulnerable people in language that is not dissimilar to that used by Germany in the 30s, and I’m out of order? — Gary Lineker 💙💛 (@GaryLineker) March 7, 2023 × With Lineker not in the fray, BBC looked for alternatives to go ahead with the show but soon found itself in a quandary. Lineker's peers and compatriots joined him in showing solidarity and decided to boycott MOTD. “Everybody knows what Match of the Day means to me, but I’ve told the BBC I won’t be doing it tomorrow. Solidarity,” wrote former Arsenal star Ian Wright on Twitter. “I have informed the BBC that I won’t be appearing on MOTD tomorrow night," added Premier League's top goalscorer Alan Shearer. Consequently, the 80-minute primetime BBC1 show was reduced to a 20-minute highlights package with no punditry or analysis. A simple highlight package was played that comically did not have the commentator's audio as the BBC did not have the right to Premier League’s ‘World Feed’. ALSO READ | No Football Focus, Final Score shows on BBC as presenters go off air on Saturday to support Gary Lineker BBC and its ambivalent freedom of speech position After Lineker was benched, BBC issued a statement where it said the ex-footballer was told not to take sides on political issues or controversies. "We have said that he should keep well away from taking sides on party political issues or political controversies," read the statement. However, the statement exposed the BBC's partisan approach and rather ambivalent stance regarding freedom of speech. Lineker was allowed to espouse a lengthy monologue against Qatar during last year's FIFA World Cup. Before the WC kick-off, the 62-year-old gave his piece of mind and called out Qatar for its dodgy human rights record and slated FIFA for trying to silence them. WATCH | Mutiny at BBC after anchor pulled from football show At the time, Lineker, representing BBC, took a clear stance, dipping his hands in political controversy and yet the broadcaster did not find it going against its own advisory. In fact, BBC, with its holier-than-thou attitude, refused to air the opening and closing ceremony of the World Cup. BBC and Tory connection Thus, the question begs itself - what has changed in the last few months that BBC is now going after its own? The answer is rather controversial and one that may not be to the liking of those who have adored BBC's journalistic credibility. BBC's top hierarchy has cultivated a deep relationship with the Conservative Party. A media organisation is supposed to be non-partisan, neutral and credible - at least on paper, if not in the realms of reality. However, the current BBC director Richard Sharp is known for his sharp (no pun intended) right-wing leaning. Sharp has reportedly donated more than £400,000 since the turn of the century to the Conservative Party. Moreover, the BBC chairperson is currently under investigation after it was revealed that he helped former prime minister Boris Johnson secure a loan of £800,000. The former Goldman Sachs manager reportedly oversaw the work of Rishi Sunak during his early days in the finance industry - thereby leading to accusations of conflict of interest. He is also the director of Centre for Policy Studies - a right-wing think tank that has accused the BBC of harbouring left-wing bias. Read more: 'We will detain': UK PM Rishi Sunak defends new bill for crackdown on illegal immigrants After taking over the top BBC post, Sharp, in an interview openly stated that BBC had a 'liberal bias' and that “the institution is fighting against it”. The Tory links do not stop here. Sir Robbie Gibb, director of communications to former PM Theresa May currently sits on the BBC board. Gibb was appointed to the position by former PM Boris Johnson and has played a key part in the establishment of the right-wing channel GB News. The overall perception due to such connections is that BBC surrendered to the demands of the Tory leaders currently sitting in 10, Downing Street. Once such a perception festers, it can spell doom for a broadcaster, however big in scale they may be. We live in a 24-hour news cycle where such incidents are often forgotten on a whim. However, the intimate connection of football and politics, in this particular case may not allow BBC to wriggle out of the mess easily. As for Lineker, his superb punditry skills may not allow him to be without an employer for long. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Has the BBC-Tory marriage of convenience led to the axing of Gary Lineker from MOTD?

There is a mutiny brewing in Britain's BBC. The anger over axing out Gary Lineker is growing. The British broadcaster was forced to cancel most of its sports coverage. The reason is that the presenters are not willing to work, as they are supporting Gary Lineker. This comes amid Lineker's tweet on UK government's immigration policy and has led to a larger debate on freedom of speech in Britain.

Mutiny at BBC after anchor pulled from football show

<p>Indian sports minister Anurag Thakur on Saturday came down heavily on BBC on Saturday after the UK media outlet suspended the host of its popular Match of the Day football show, Gary Lineker. BBC accused Lineker of violating the organization's purported impartiality norms for his remarks about the UK government's Illegal Migration Bill.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While taking to Twitter, the sports minister wrote it is "Interesting" to see how the BBC which makes "lofty claims about journalistic objectivity &amp; independence suspend their star anchor over his social media activity."</p>

<p>"In yet another interesting exhibit, BBC suspends airing of a documentary it shot over fears that it would anger a section of society. Fake narrative setting &amp; ethical journalism are inherently contradictory," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-bizarre-is-it-raining-worms-in-china-570896">BIZARRE! Is it raining worms in China?</a></p>

<p>The BBC has recently received a heavy backlash from the top Indian ministers for its two-part documentary series India: The Modi Question. The media organisation slammed Modi,&nbsp;Gujarat's then-chief minister in the divisive docuseries for his alleged involvement in the riots that broke out between Hindus and minority Muslims in 2002.</p>

<p>The documentary was broadcasted in the United Kingdom in January.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Against the backdrop of this, Anurag Thakur said, "Those indulging in malicious propaganda forged in concocted facts can obviously never be expected to have the moral fibre or the courage to stand up for journalistic independence."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Interesting to see how the BBC which makes lofty claims about journalistic objectivity &amp; independence suspend their star anchor over his social media activity.<br />
<br />
1/3 <a href="https://t.co/iTDY3sJQHF">pic.twitter.com/iTDY3sJQHF</a></p>
— Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur) <a href="https://twitter.com/ianuragthakur/status/1634550481946279941?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/1993-mumbai-blasts-30-years-on-a-scar-on-indian-city-that-still-cuts-deep-570949">1993 Mumbai blasts: 30 years on, scar of terror on Indian megacity still cuts deep</a></p>

<p>The BBC's offices in New Delhi and Mumbai were searched by Indian tax authorities last month.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Why was Gary Lineker suspended?&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Lineker on 7 March&nbsp;denounced the Tory's&nbsp;immigration policies, comparing them to Germany in the 1930s.&nbsp;&nbsp;The tweets caused a significant uproar.&nbsp;Tory lawmakers and members of the Rishi Sunak cabinet criticised&nbsp;Lineker for his remarks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the BBC said on Friday that it had opted not to air an episode of Sir David Attenborough's acclaimed new wildlife documentary series Wild Islands.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some reports in the British media claim that the episode was cancelled because of concern for a potential Tory, right-wing backlash over environmental destruction. But BBC asserted that the programme was never intended to be aired in the first place.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As a result of the controversy, the broadcaster's flagship soccer show Match of the Day as well as other programmes have been pulled off the air and are now facing a boycott from commentators, hosts and even players.</p>

<p>Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/foreign-minister-bilawal-bhutto-admits-pakistan-unable-to-get-uns-attention-on-kashmir-570886">Foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto admits Pakistan unable to get UN’s attention on Kashmir</a></p>

<p>Gary Lineker, whose career lasted from 1978 to 1994, was England's best center-forward of the 1980s. Lineker is regarded as one of England's finest football commentators, mostly due to his work on the BBC programme "Match of the Day," which he first featured in 1999.</p>

<p>“The BBC has decided that he will step back from presenting ‘Match of the Day’ until we’ve got an agreed and clear position on his use of social media,” the media organisation said in a statement.</p>

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Indian sports minister Anurag Thakur on Saturday came down heavily on BBC on Saturday after the UK media outlet suspended the host of its popular Match of the Day football show, Gary Lineker.

Indian sports minister Anurag Thakur on Saturday came down heavily on BBC on Saturday after the UK media outlet suspended the host of its popular Match of the Day football show, Gary Lineker. BBC accused Lineker of violating the organization's purported impartiality norms for his remarks about the UK government's Illegal Migration Bill. While taking to Twitter, the sports minister wrote it is "Interesting" to see how the BBC which makes "lofty claims about journalistic objectivity & independence suspend their star anchor over his social media activity." "In yet another interesting exhibit, BBC suspends airing of a documentary it shot over fears that it would anger a section of society. Fake narrative setting & ethical journalism are inherently contradictory," he added. WATCH | BIZARRE! Is it raining worms in China? The BBC has recently received a heavy backlash from the top Indian ministers for its two-part documentary series India: The Modi Question. The media organisation slammed Modi, Gujarat's then-chief minister in the divisive docuseries for his alleged involvement in the riots that broke out between Hindus and minority Muslims in 2002. The documentary was broadcasted in the United Kingdom in January. Against the backdrop of this, Anurag Thakur said, "Those indulging in malicious propaganda forged in concocted facts can obviously never be expected to have the moral fibre or the courage to stand up for journalistic independence." Interesting to see how the BBC which makes lofty claims about journalistic objectivity & independence suspend their star anchor over his social media activity. 1/3 pic.twitter.com/iTDY3sJQHF — Anurag Thakur (@ianuragthakur) March 11, 2023 × Also Read | 1993 Mumbai blasts: 30 years on, scar of terror on Indian megacity still cuts deep The BBC's offices in New Delhi and Mumbai were searched by Indian tax authorities last month. Why was Gary Lineker suspended? Lineker on 7 March denounced the Tory's immigration policies, comparing them to Germany in the 1930s. The tweets caused a significant uproar. Tory lawmakers and members of the Rishi Sunak cabinet criticised Lineker for his remarks. Meanwhile, the BBC said on Friday that it had opted not to air an episode of Sir David Attenborough's acclaimed new wildlife documentary series Wild Islands. Some reports in the British media claim that the episode was cancelled because of concern for a potential Tory, right-wing backlash over environmental destruction. But BBC asserted that the programme was never intended to be aired in the first place. As a result of the controversy, the broadcaster's flagship soccer show Match of the Day as well as other programmes have been pulled off the air and are now facing a boycott from commentators, hosts and even players. Watch | Foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto admits Pakistan unable to get UN’s attention on Kashmir Gary Lineker, whose career lasted from 1978 to 1994, was England's best center-forward of the 1980s. Lineker is regarded as one of England's finest football commentators, mostly due to his work on the BBC programme "Match of the Day," which he first featured in 1999. “The BBC has decided that he will step back from presenting ‘Match of the Day’ until we’ve got an agreed and clear position on his use of social media,” the media organisation said in a statement. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian sports minister Anurag Thakur comes out all guns blazing at BBC over Gary Lineker's suspension

<p>Amid the growing drama after BBC anchor Gary Lineker was taken off air by the broadcaster for criticising the United Kingdom's asylum policy, the channel's host for the famous 'Football Focus' program- Alex Scott - in a tweet, said that she won't be appearing on the show on Saturday.</p>

<p>“I made a decision last night that even though I love doing football focus and we have had an incredible week winning an SJA award that it just doesn’t feel right going ahead with the show today,” wrote Scott wrote on Twitter. “Hopefully I will be back in the chair next week…,” she added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I made a decision last night that even though I love doing football focus and we have had an incredible week winning an SJA award that it just doesn’t feel right going ahead with the show today. Hopefully I will be back in the chair next week…</p>
— Alex Scott MBE (@AlexScott) <a href="https://twitter.com/AlexScott/status/1634500812045971456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 11, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The row started after Lineker, the broadcaster's highest-paid anchor and presenter of BBC's iconic 'Match of the Day' program about football highlights criticised Rishi Sunak government's legislation on migrants. The former England soccer captain was taken off air Friday after calling the government's policy as a “cruel policy directed at the most vulnerable people in language that is not dissimilar to that used by Germany in the 30s.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">There is no huge influx. We take far fewer refugees than other major European countries. This is just an immeasurably cruel policy directed at the most vulnerable people in language that is not dissimilar to that used by Germany in the 30s, and I’m out of order?</p>
— Gary Lineker 💙💛 (@GaryLineker) <a href="https://twitter.com/GaryLineker/status/1633111662352891908?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Apart from Scott, many other presenters have also decided to be off air in solidarity with Lineker. Notable among them are Jason Mohammad and Kelly Sommers.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-sports-minister-comes-out-all-guns-blazing-at-bbc-over-gary-linekers-suspension-570984">Indian sports minister Anurag Thakur comes out all guns blazing at BBC over Gary Lineker's suspension</a></p>

<p>Mohammad , who presents BBC's 'Final Score', took to twitter to inform that he will not be doing his programme.</p>

<p>“As you know, Final Score is a TV show very close to my heart. However — I have this morning informed the BBC that I will not be presenting the show this afternoon on BBC One," wrote Mohammad on Twitter.</p>

<p>Kelly, who has appeared on many shows on BBC, also said the same thing and wrote: "just to confirm I won’t be on BBC television today.”</p>

<p>The BBC, after the presenters backed down, informed that neither 'Football Focus' not 'Final Score' would air on Saturday.</p>

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Amid the growing drama after BBC anchor Gary Lineker was taken off air by the broadcaster for criticising the United Kingdom's asylum policy, the channel's host for the famous 'Football Focus' program- Alex Scott - in a tweet, said that she won't be appearing on the show on Saturday.

Amid the growing drama after BBC anchor Gary Lineker was taken off air by the broadcaster for criticising the United Kingdom's asylum policy, the channel's host for the famous 'Football Focus' program- Alex Scott - in a tweet, said that she won't be appearing on the show on Saturday. “I made a decision last night that even though I love doing football focus and we have had an incredible week winning an SJA award that it just doesn’t feel right going ahead with the show today,” wrote Scott wrote on Twitter. “Hopefully I will be back in the chair next week…,” she added. I made a decision last night that even though I love doing football focus and we have had an incredible week winning an SJA award that it just doesn’t feel right going ahead with the show today. Hopefully I will be back in the chair next week… — Alex Scott MBE (@AlexScott) March 11, 2023 × The row started after Lineker, the broadcaster's highest-paid anchor and presenter of BBC's iconic 'Match of the Day' program about football highlights criticised Rishi Sunak government's legislation on migrants. The former England soccer captain was taken off air Friday after calling the government's policy as a “cruel policy directed at the most vulnerable people in language that is not dissimilar to that used by Germany in the 30s.” There is no huge influx. We take far fewer refugees than other major European countries. This is just an immeasurably cruel policy directed at the most vulnerable people in language that is not dissimilar to that used by Germany in the 30s, and I’m out of order? — Gary Lineker 💙💛 (@GaryLineker) March 7, 2023 × Apart from Scott, many other presenters have also decided to be off air in solidarity with Lineker. Notable among them are Jason Mohammad and Kelly Sommers. Also Read: Indian sports minister Anurag Thakur comes out all guns blazing at BBC over Gary Lineker's suspension Mohammad , who presents BBC's 'Final Score', took to twitter to inform that he will not be doing his programme. “As you know, Final Score is a TV show very close to my heart. However — I have this morning informed the BBC that I will not be presenting the show this afternoon on BBC One," wrote Mohammad on Twitter. Kelly, who has appeared on many shows on BBC, also said the same thing and wrote: "just to confirm I won’t be on BBC television today.” The BBC, after the presenters backed down, informed that neither 'Football Focus' not 'Final Score' would air on Saturday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

No Football Focus, Final Score shows on BBC as presenters go off air on Saturday to support Gary Lineker

<p data-testid="paragraph-0">Gary Lineker was never booked in his 16-year playing career but the former England striker is in danger of being shown the red card by his employer, the BBC, for standing up for refugees trying to make their way to Britain. Lineker has hosted the BBC's flagship football show "Match of the Day" for more than 20 years and the charismatic 62-year-old has never been afraid to voice his opinions about political issues like Brexit. As the BBC's highest-paid employee, Lineker is the face of its sports coverage.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-3">Although the corporation has strict impartiality guidelines, that has not stopped Lineker from airing his views on Twitter where he has over 8.7 million followers.&nbsp; Matters came to a head on Tuesday when Britain's interior minister Suella Braverman outlined proposals to stop almost all migrants crossing the Channel. Lineker described the policy as "beyond awful" and "immeasurably cruel".</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-5">Lineker wrote on Twitter that the language used in the proposals was not dissimilar to that of Nazi Germany, forcing the BBC to have a "frank conversation" with the presenter after Braverman's complaint. Lineker doubled down on Wednesday, saying he would continue to speak for those who had no voice.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-7">"I have never known such love and support in my life than I'm getting this morning (England World Cup goals aside, possibly). I want to thank each and every one of you," he added on Twitter. Reuters has contacted the BBC for comment.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I have never known such love and support in my life than I’m getting this morning (England World Cup goals aside, possibly). I want to thank each and every one of you. It means a lot. I’ll continue to try and speak up for those poor souls that have no voice. Cheers all. 👊🏻</p>
— Gary Lineker 💙💛 (@GaryLineker) <a href="https://twitter.com/GaryLineker/status/1633432528701779968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">There is no huge influx. We take far fewer refugees than other major European countries. This is just an immeasurably cruel policy directed at the most vulnerable people in language that is not dissimilar to that used by Germany in the 30s, and I’m out of order?</p>
— Gary Lineker 💙💛 (@GaryLineker) <a href="https://twitter.com/GaryLineker/status/1633111662352891908?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-dark-clouds-loom-over-antonio-contes-future-as-spurs-coach-after-ucl-exit-570132">Champions League: Dark clouds loom over Antonio Conte's future as Spurs coach after UCL exit</a></strong></p>

<h2 data-testid="Heading">PROLIFIC STRIKER</h2>

<p data-testid="paragraph-9">As a footballer, Lineker's poaching instincts made him one of the most prolific strikers in the game, although major silverware eluded him. He made his professional debut for Leicester City in 1978-79 and went on to make over 500 club appearances for the Foxes, Everton, Barcelona, Tottenham Hotspur and Japanese side Nagoya Grampus Eight, scoring nearly 300 goals.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-11">He earned his first England cap in 1984 and by the time he retired was the country's second-highest scorer with 48 goals, behind Bobby Charlton. Wayne Rooney and Harry Kane have since overtaken both.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-12">Lineker played 80 times for his country and his four goals at the 1990 World Cup despite being unwell propelled England to the semi-finals. Having also top-scored at the 1986 World Cup with six goals, no English player has come close to eclipsing his record of 10 goals at football's global showpiece event, earning him a spot in English Football's Hall of Fame.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-14">Following his retirement, Lineker embarked on a media career, working as a football pundit before taking over as Match of the Day host while also writing columns for British newspapers. Midway through the 2015-16 campaign, Lineker went viral on social media when he promised to present Match of the Day wearing just his underwear if his former club Leicester went on to win the Premier League title.</p>

<p data-testid="paragraph-16">Leicester beat overwhelming odds to lift the trophy and Lineker duly kept his word, presenting the first Match of the Day of the following season wearing nothing but white boxer shorts.</p>


Gary Lineker was never booked in his 16-year playing career but the former England striker is in danger of being shown the red card by his employer, the BBC, for standing up for refugees trying to make their way to Britain.

Gary Lineker was never booked in his 16-year playing career but the former England striker is in danger of being shown the red card by his employer, the BBC, for standing up for refugees trying to make their way to Britain. Lineker has hosted the BBC's flagship football show "Match of the Day" for more than 20 years and the charismatic 62-year-old has never been afraid to voice his opinions about political issues like Brexit. As the BBC's highest-paid employee, Lineker is the face of its sports coverage. Although the corporation has strict impartiality guidelines, that has not stopped Lineker from airing his views on Twitter where he has over 8.7 million followers. Matters came to a head on Tuesday when Britain's interior minister Suella Braverman outlined proposals to stop almost all migrants crossing the Channel. Lineker described the policy as "beyond awful" and "immeasurably cruel". Lineker wrote on Twitter that the language used in the proposals was not dissimilar to that of Nazi Germany, forcing the BBC to have a "frank conversation" with the presenter after Braverman's complaint. Lineker doubled down on Wednesday, saying he would continue to speak for those who had no voice. "I have never known such love and support in my life than I'm getting this morning (England World Cup goals aside, possibly). I want to thank each and every one of you," he added on Twitter. Reuters has contacted the BBC for comment. I have never known such love and support in my life than I’m getting this morning (England World Cup goals aside, possibly). I want to thank each and every one of you. It means a lot. I’ll continue to try and speak up for those poor souls that have no voice. Cheers all. 👊🏻 — Gary Lineker 💙💛 (@GaryLineker) March 8, 2023 × There is no huge influx. We take far fewer refugees than other major European countries. This is just an immeasurably cruel policy directed at the most vulnerable people in language that is not dissimilar to that used by Germany in the 30s, and I’m out of order? — Gary Lineker 💙💛 (@GaryLineker) March 7, 2023 × Also read: Champions League: Dark clouds loom over Antonio Conte's future as Spurs coach after UCL exit PROLIFIC STRIKER As a footballer, Lineker's poaching instincts made him one of the most prolific strikers in the game, although major silverware eluded him. He made his professional debut for Leicester City in 1978-79 and went on to make over 500 club appearances for the Foxes, Everton, Barcelona, Tottenham Hotspur and Japanese side Nagoya Grampus Eight, scoring nearly 300 goals. He earned his first England cap in 1984 and by the time he retired was the country's second-highest scorer with 48 goals, behind Bobby Charlton. Wayne Rooney and Harry Kane have since overtaken both. Lineker played 80 times for his country and his four goals at the 1990 World Cup despite being unwell propelled England to the semi-finals. Having also top-scored at the 1986 World Cup with six goals, no English player has come close to eclipsing his record of 10 goals at football's global showpiece event, earning him a spot in English Football's Hall of Fame. Following his retirement, Lineker embarked on a media career, working as a football pundit before taking over as Match of the Day host while also writing columns for British newspapers. Midway through the 2015-16 campaign, Lineker went viral on social media when he promised to present Match of the Day wearing just his underwear if his former club Leicester went on to win the Premier League title. Leicester beat overwhelming odds to lift the trophy and Lineker duly kept his word, presenting the first Match of the Day of the following season wearing nothing but white boxer shorts.

BBC's Gary Lineker, former England striker, refuses to budge in conflict of ideals over refugees

<p>British Foreign Minister James Cleverly, <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bbc-must-follow-law-eam-jaishankar-tells-uk-foreign-secretary-567148">who is in India for the G20 Foreign Ministers meeting</a></strong>, on Wednesday (March 1) raised the issue of tax searches at the office of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) during a meeting with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar. This comes after Indian tax authorities carried out searches at the British broadcaster's offices in New Delhi and Mumbai.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here's is what happened:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>1. Cleverly, who raised the issue of tax searches, was told by New Delhi on Wednesday that all entities operating in India must comply fully with relevant laws and regulations, the news agency Reuters reported, citing a source in the Narendra Modi government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>2.&nbsp;Last month, Indian tax authorities spent three days searching the BBC's offices in New Delhi and Mumbai, cloning data from the digital devices of some senior employees.&nbsp;</p>

<p>3.&nbsp;The searches came after the central government severely criticised the screening of the British broadcaster's documentary about the 2002 Gujarat riots. The government said that the searches were not related to the documentary.&nbsp;</p>

<p>4. On Wednesday, James Cleverly did not share details of his conversation with Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar but said the vast bulk of the talks were about the positive bilateral work.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The conversations I had with him are best to keep with him. I did raise it," the British foreign minister said. "One of the advantages of having such a strong and professional relationship with Dr Jaishankar is I am able to bring up, and indeed he brings up with me, some of these sensitive issues. I did raise it with him," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>5. On being asked if there were concerns about civil liberties in India, Cleverly said, "We want to ensure that values that both our countries feel strongly about are upheld. That means working together on a range of issues."</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Indian foreign minister Jaishakar tweeted on Wednesday that he and Cleverly exchanged views on the global situation as well as the G20 agenda.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Began the morning with a bilateral meeting with Foreign Secretary James Cleverly of the UK. Reviewed the progress in our relationship since our last discussion. Noted in particular the commencement of the Young Professional Scheme," Jaishankar tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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British Foreign Minister James Cleverly, who is in India for the G20 Foreign Ministers meeting, on Wednesday (March 1) raised the issue of tax searches at the office of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) during a meeting with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar.

British Foreign Minister James Cleverly, who is in India for the G20 Foreign Ministers meeting, on Wednesday (March 1) raised the issue of tax searches at the office of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) during a meeting with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar. This comes after Indian tax authorities carried out searches at the British broadcaster's offices in New Delhi and Mumbai. Here's is what happened: 1. Cleverly, who raised the issue of tax searches, was told by New Delhi on Wednesday that all entities operating in India must comply fully with relevant laws and regulations, the news agency Reuters reported, citing a source in the Narendra Modi government. 2. Last month, Indian tax authorities spent three days searching the BBC's offices in New Delhi and Mumbai, cloning data from the digital devices of some senior employees. 3. The searches came after the central government severely criticised the screening of the British broadcaster's documentary about the 2002 Gujarat riots. The government said that the searches were not related to the documentary. 4. On Wednesday, James Cleverly did not share details of his conversation with Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar but said the vast bulk of the talks were about the positive bilateral work. "The conversations I had with him are best to keep with him. I did raise it," the British foreign minister said. "One of the advantages of having such a strong and professional relationship with Dr Jaishankar is I am able to bring up, and indeed he brings up with me, some of these sensitive issues. I did raise it with him," he added. 5. On being asked if there were concerns about civil liberties in India, Cleverly said, "We want to ensure that values that both our countries feel strongly about are upheld. That means working together on a range of issues." Meanwhile, Indian foreign minister Jaishakar tweeted on Wednesday that he and Cleverly exchanged views on the global situation as well as the G20 agenda. "Began the morning with a bilateral meeting with Foreign Secretary James Cleverly of the UK. Reviewed the progress in our relationship since our last discussion. Noted in particular the commencement of the Young Professional Scheme," Jaishankar tweeted. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK raises issue of BBC tax searches. Here's what India said - 5 points

British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly raised the issue of Income Tax department searches on BBC offices in Delhi and Mumbai in bilateral talks with External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar on Wednesday.

UK raises BBC's Tax searches with Jaishankar

<p>Indian Income Tax department said on Friday that it found "irregularities in tax payments" during the recently conducted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bbc-income-tax-survey-at-delhi-mumbai-offices-concludes-after-nearly-60-hours-562871">survey at the offices of a prominent international media company</a> in New Delhi and Mumbai. The statement comes in the backdrop of&nbsp;a three-day search of BBC offices in Mumbai and New Delhi, which concluded on Thursday.&nbsp;News agencies have mentioned that the officials said the statement pertains to the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the&nbsp;official statement, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) said that the income and profits shown by various BBC group entities are "not commensurate" with the scale of their operations in India.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bbc-tax-raids-saga-office-becomes-home-for-a-dozen-bbc-senior-employees-562683">BBC tax raids saga: Office becomes home for a dozen BBC senior employees</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Without naming the organisation, CBDT said that the media group is engaged in the business of development of content in English, Hindi and various other Indian languages; advertisement sales and market support services, etc.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement mentioned that the authorities have gathered several pieces of evidence about the operation of the organisation which indicate that "tax has not been paid on certain remittances" which have not been disclosed as income in India by the foreign entities of the group.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Ruckus after Income Tax survey on BBC India&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The CBDT further mentioned, "The survey operations also revealed that services of seconded employees have been utilised for which reimbursement has been made by the Indian entity to the foreign entity concerned."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The statement also noted that the survey has revealed several discrepancies and inconsistencies with regard to transfer pricing documentation and such discrepancies relate to the level of relevant Function, Asset and Risk (FAR) analysis, incorrect use of comparables which are applicable to determine the correct Arms Length Price (ALP) and inadequate revenue apportionment, among others.&nbsp;<br />
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Indian Income Tax department said on Friday that it found "irregularities in tax payments" during the recently conducted survey at the offices of a prominent international media company in New Delhi and Mumbai.

Indian Income Tax department said on Friday that it found "irregularities in tax payments" during the recently conducted survey at the offices of a prominent international media company in New Delhi and Mumbai. The statement comes in the backdrop of a three-day search of BBC offices in Mumbai and New Delhi, which concluded on Thursday. News agencies have mentioned that the officials said the statement pertains to the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). In the official statement, the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) said that the income and profits shown by various BBC group entities are "not commensurate" with the scale of their operations in India. ALSO READ | BBC tax raids saga: Office becomes home for a dozen BBC senior employees Without naming the organisation, CBDT said that the media group is engaged in the business of development of content in English, Hindi and various other Indian languages; advertisement sales and market support services, etc. The statement mentioned that the authorities have gathered several pieces of evidence about the operation of the organisation which indicate that "tax has not been paid on certain remittances" which have not been disclosed as income in India by the foreign entities of the group. WATCH | Ruckus after Income Tax survey on BBC India × The CBDT further mentioned, "The survey operations also revealed that services of seconded employees have been utilised for which reimbursement has been made by the Indian entity to the foreign entity concerned." The statement also noted that the survey has revealed several discrepancies and inconsistencies with regard to transfer pricing documentation and such discrepancies relate to the level of relevant Function, Asset and Risk (FAR) analysis, incorrect use of comparables which are applicable to determine the correct Arms Length Price (ALP) and inadequate revenue apportionment, among others. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IT survey on BBC: Discrepancies, inconsistencies found in transfer pricing documentation, says CBDT

<p>The Indian Income Tax department's survey operation at the BBC's offices in Delhi and Mumbai came to an end on Thursday(February 16)&nbsp;after nearly 60&nbsp;hours. The three-day search&nbsp;was concluded by the officials, who took several papers and data with them. The BBC's press team reported that the taxmen had left their offices and stated that they were standing by employees who had to endure the&nbsp;protracted interrogation or were required to stay back in the office&nbsp;overnight. The British broadcaster declared that "our output is back to normal" adding that they will continue to&nbsp;report&nbsp;"without fear or favour" as reported by India Today.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At about&nbsp;11 a.m. on Tuesday, a group of representatives from the Income Tax Department showed up at the BBC offices. Reports said that the probe was related to BBC subsidiary firms' foreign taxes issues.</p>

<p>Certain employees were asked for financial information, and the officers made copies of electronic and paper records from the news organisation. The BBC ordered its staff members not to erase any data from their electronic devices while the survey teams gathered evidence.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bbc-tax-raids-saga-office-becomes-home-for-a-dozen-bbc-senior-employees-562683">BBC tax raids saga: Office becomes home for a dozen BBC senior employees</a></p>

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<p>As per India Today's reports, the taxmen gave the editors of the BBC a paper that showed they had clearance to carry out the survey for three days.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Adani unable to go ahead with a $450 million deal</strong></p>

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<p>The raid comes days after the BBC aired a two-part documentary series on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's alleged involvement in the Gujarat riots of 2002.&nbsp;Opposition politicians condemned the searches at the BBC headquarters.</p>

<p>The Editors Guild of India and the Press Club of India (PCI), two media organisations, also condemned the searches and said that government agencies were being used to "intimidate and harass" the media.</p>

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The Indian Income Tax department's survey operation at the BBC's offices in Delhi and Mumbai came to an end on Thursday(February 16) after nearly 60 hours. The three-day search was concluded by the officials, who took several papers and data with them.

The Indian Income Tax department's survey operation at the BBC's offices in Delhi and Mumbai came to an end on Thursday(February 16) after nearly 60 hours. The three-day search was concluded by the officials, who took several papers and data with them. The BBC's press team reported that the taxmen had left their offices and stated that they were standing by employees who had to endure the protracted interrogation or were required to stay back in the office overnight. The British broadcaster declared that "our output is back to normal" adding that they will continue to report "without fear or favour" as reported by India Today. At about 11 a.m. on Tuesday, a group of representatives from the Income Tax Department showed up at the BBC offices. Reports said that the probe was related to BBC subsidiary firms' foreign taxes issues. Certain employees were asked for financial information, and the officers made copies of electronic and paper records from the news organisation. The BBC ordered its staff members not to erase any data from their electronic devices while the survey teams gathered evidence. ALSO READ | BBC tax raids saga: Office becomes home for a dozen BBC senior employees Update on India: pic.twitter.com/rghvE6OpfQ — BBC News Press Team (@BBCNewsPR) February 16, 2023 × As per India Today's reports, the taxmen gave the editors of the BBC a paper that showed they had clearance to carry out the survey for three days. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: Adani unable to go ahead with a $450 million deal The raid comes days after the BBC aired a two-part documentary series on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's alleged involvement in the Gujarat riots of 2002. Opposition politicians condemned the searches at the BBC headquarters. The Editors Guild of India and the Press Club of India (PCI), two media organisations, also condemned the searches and said that government agencies were being used to "intimidate and harass" the media. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

BBC income tax survey in India offices comes to an end after nearly 60 hours

<p>BBC tax raids saga, which started days after a controversy stirred by a documentary on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has entered its third day. NDTV media outlet sources have now revealed that BBC senior employees are now spending their nights in the office as the "survey" continues at the company's India offices.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, it was reported that many BBC employees have been asked to work from home however, as per the latest reports, at least 10 senior employees have not left their workplace for the last two days as the Indian tax officials continue with their tax evasion probe.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The probe as per reports involves gathering the company's financial data from the staffers and collecting copies of the documents. But the operations at BBC offices are continuing without any hindrances, as per reports.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/munich-security-conference-to-kick-off-tomorrow-what-issues-to-take-center-stage-562574">Munich Security Conference to kick off tomorrow: what issues will take centre stage?</a></p>

<p>The whole episode started Tuesday at around 11:30 AM at the BBC offices in Delhi and Mumbai. As per reports quoting officials the operations has been carried out for over 45 hours now.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India's Supreme Court has already called a petition seeking to put a complete ban of the two-part documentary "India: The Modi Question" on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the 2002 Gujarat riots as "entirely misconceived".</p>

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<p>However, there are still some petitions left which have challenged the Indian government's decision to block the documentary's links on social media platforms. These petitions will be heard in the month of April.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The opposition leaders in India are targeting the government and linking the raids to the controversy stoked following the release of a two-part BBC documentary on the Gujarat riots in 2002 and Modi.&nbsp;The UK's national broadcaster advised its staff to cooperate with the Income Tax officials and "answer questions comprehensively".&nbsp;</p>

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BBC tax raids saga, which started days after a controversy stirred by a documentary on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has entered its third day. NDTV media outlet sources have now revealed that BBC senior employees are now spending their nights in the office as the "survey" continues at the company's India offices.

BBC tax raids saga, which started days after a controversy stirred by a documentary on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has entered its third day. NDTV media outlet sources have now revealed that BBC senior employees are now spending their nights in the office as the "survey" continues at the company's India offices. Earlier, it was reported that many BBC employees have been asked to work from home however, as per the latest reports, at least 10 senior employees have not left their workplace for the last two days as the Indian tax officials continue with their tax evasion probe. The probe as per reports involves gathering the company's financial data from the staffers and collecting copies of the documents. But the operations at BBC offices are continuing without any hindrances, as per reports. Also Read | Munich Security Conference to kick off tomorrow: what issues will take centre stage? The whole episode started Tuesday at around 11:30 AM at the BBC offices in Delhi and Mumbai. As per reports quoting officials the operations has been carried out for over 45 hours now. India's Supreme Court has already called a petition seeking to put a complete ban of the two-part documentary "India: The Modi Question" on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the 2002 Gujarat riots as "entirely misconceived". Also Read | War a military failure for Russia, Ukraine's tank count rising: Think tank However, there are still some petitions left which have challenged the Indian government's decision to block the documentary's links on social media platforms. These petitions will be heard in the month of April. Watch | Tesla to share charging network, 3,500 chargers for non-Tesla customers The opposition leaders in India are targeting the government and linking the raids to the controversy stoked following the release of a two-part BBC documentary on the Gujarat riots in 2002 and Modi. The UK's national broadcaster advised its staff to cooperate with the Income Tax officials and "answer questions comprehensively". WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

BBC tax raids saga: Office becomes home for a dozen BBC senior employees

<p>BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation) offices in Delhi and Mumbai are being scrutinised for the second straight day on Wednesday by Income Tax officials, as part of a tax evasion probe, said multiple media reports.&nbsp;According to a report, BBC has instructed its employees by email to work from home and refrain from answering questions pertaining to their personal incomes. "Employees can refrain from answering questions on personal income if asked so. They should answer other salary-related queries," the email read.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UK's national broadcaster advised its staff to cooperate with the Income Tax officials and "answer questions comprehensively". The Indian media outlet, NDTV while quoting sources said, that the latest survey will be centred around questions related to accounts. It added that the probe will be conducted on the BBC senior management.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>"The Income Tax Authorities remain at the BBC offices in New Delhi and Mumbai. Many staff have now left the building, but some have been asked to remain and are continuing to cooperate with the ongoing enquiries," a BBC News Press Team tweeted at 10:26 pm on Tuesday night.</p>

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<p>"We are supporting our staff during this time and continue to hope to have this situation resolved as soon as possible," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is the second straight day when BBC offices were searched in India. On Tuesday, a team of 60-70 personnel of the Income Tax department carried out the survey and the employees were asked not to use phones and also to not share details until the search is over.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The opposition leaders in India are targeting the government and linking the raids to the controversy stoked following the release of a two-part BBC documentary on the Gujarat riots in 2002 and the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/designer-babies-how-far-is-too-far-562161">'Designer' babies: How far is too far?</a></p>

<p>The last crucial development in&nbsp;the BBC saga was when last week, India's apex court rejected a request for a complete ban on BBC in India over the documentary. The Supreme Court termed the petition "entirely misconceived". UK has not made any official comments yet over the searches.</p>

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BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation) offices in Delhi and Mumbai are being scrutinised for the second straight day on Wednesday by Income Tax officials, as part of a tax evasion probe, said multiple media reports.

BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation) offices in Delhi and Mumbai are being scrutinised for the second straight day on Wednesday by Income Tax officials, as part of a tax evasion probe, said multiple media reports. According to a report, BBC has instructed its employees by email to work from home and refrain from answering questions pertaining to their personal incomes. "Employees can refrain from answering questions on personal income if asked so. They should answer other salary-related queries," the email read. The UK's national broadcaster advised its staff to cooperate with the Income Tax officials and "answer questions comprehensively". The Indian media outlet, NDTV while quoting sources said, that the latest survey will be centred around questions related to accounts. It added that the probe will be conducted on the BBC senior management. Also Read | FDA approves a 'first-of-its-kind' vibrating pill to relieve chronic constipation "The Income Tax Authorities remain at the BBC offices in New Delhi and Mumbai. Many staff have now left the building, but some have been asked to remain and are continuing to cooperate with the ongoing enquiries," a BBC News Press Team tweeted at 10:26 pm on Tuesday night. Also Read | Hundreds, including same-sex couples, wed in mass ceremony on Valentine's Day in Mexico "We are supporting our staff during this time and continue to hope to have this situation resolved as soon as possible," it added. This is the second straight day when BBC offices were searched in India. On Tuesday, a team of 60-70 personnel of the Income Tax department carried out the survey and the employees were asked not to use phones and also to not share details until the search is over. The opposition leaders in India are targeting the government and linking the raids to the controversy stoked following the release of a two-part BBC documentary on the Gujarat riots in 2002 and the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Watch | 'Designer' babies: How far is too far? The last crucial development in the BBC saga was when last week, India's apex court rejected a request for a complete ban on BBC in India over the documentary. The Supreme Court termed the petition "entirely misconceived". UK has not made any official comments yet over the searches. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

BBC offices searched for second day in tax evasion probe, employees asked to work from home: Reports

After the Income Tax department conducted a survey on the BBC’s offices in India, a ruckus has broken out over the issue. We recap the war of words over the action, and what various stakeholders have to comment about it.

The India Story | Ruckus after Income Tax survey on BBC India

BBC offices in India have been raided by tax department officials, just weeks after the release of a documentary critical of the prime minister, Narendra Modi, which was later blocked by the government.

'Tax-evasion' investigation on BBC

The Indian Income Tax Department arrived at the Delhi and Mumbai offices of the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC). The operation is being called a survey by officials, not a raid.

Income Tax Department surveys BBC India: 5 things to know

A team of officials from the Income Tax Department conducted survey operations at the offices of the BBC in Delhi and Mumbai in connection with alleged tax evasion and irregularities.

BBC India Raid: I-T Department conducts 'survey operations' for alleged tax evasion

The BBC's New Delhi office has been raided by the Indian Income tax department. Not much has been disclosed about the development yet but there have been raids at the British Broadcasting Corporations Delhi and Mumbai Office as well.

BBC India offices raided: Officials say the I-T department is conducting a survey operation

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