The Guild opined that to book The Quint reporter under the draconian provisions of the Official Secrets Act is unfair and unjustified. It was akin to shooting the messenger and was a direct threat to the freedom of the press. The Guild stated that the report done by The Quint was in public interest and exposing the misuse of jawans by their seniors could hardly be construed as violating the Official Secrets Act.

The Guild added that to penalise the reporter under its provisions was a clear attempt by the Nashik police and the Army to harass her and silence the voice of the press. The Guild also called upon print, electronic and digital media to follow the guidelines enumerated in the Guild's Code of Practice for media organisations and journalists while conducting such sting operations or exposes.