Journalists Attacked by PTI Protesters in Islamabad: A Blow to Media Safety

November 27, 2024 – Pakistan –

During the climax of the “Final Call” protest by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in Islamabad’s Red Zone, dozens of journalists and media staff were physically attacked by PTI supporters, marking a disturbing escalation in press violence.

Among those assaulted was Mohammad Yousaf, an Associated Press cameraman, who was struck on the head with an iron rod while covering events near G-10 Srinagar Highway. His equipment was also vandalized. Female reporter Quratul Ain was pushed and injured near Express Chowk. Numerous other journalists from both domestic and foreign outlets reported being hit, shoved, or denied entry to the National Press Club as a mob of 50–60 protesters tried to breach its gates.

Pakistan’s Press Council (PCP), led by Chairman Muhammad Arshad Khan Jadoon, issued a strong rebuke. Jadoon denounced the acts as “blatant violations of press freedom and journalistic integrity,” warning that such intimidation would not be tolerated . The Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF) echoed this, calling the attacks “extremely worrisome” and urging PTI leadership to establish guidelines for media protection during protests.

These incidents occurred amid heightened political tension. What began on November 24 as a PTI-led sit-in demanding Imran Khan’s release devolved into widespread unrest. Security forces responded with force—using tear gas, water cannons, and reportedly live ammunition—leading to several fatalities, over 4,000 arrests, and a near-total internet blackout .

Press organizations, including the IFJ and PFUJ, condemned the violence. The IFJ highlighted that this was not an isolated event; since May 2023, PTI supporters have repeatedly targeted journalists during protests. In past PTI-led protests, there were multiple documented cases of cameramen being beaten and equipment destroyed, such as against Dawn News and Express crews.

The assault on journalists during political unrest reflects a growing erosion of media safety in Pakistan. The failure of security agencies to shield press personnel—despite clear identification—raises alarm over institutional complacency. Protecting media workers, whether in times of civil dissent or calm, is fundamental to democratic resilience in Pakistan—a principle at risk amid current political hostilities.

Reference –

Chairman PCP condemns attack on media houses, journalists by PTI protesters

https://www.dawn.com/news/1874989