ISLAMABAD: Tensions escalated outside the National Press Club on Thursday when Islamabad police forcibly entered the premises during a protest organized by the Azad Kashmir Awami Action Committee.
Eye Witnesses reported that police officers stormed the club, damaging property in the cafeteria and physically assaulting journalists present inside. Additionally, a staff member of the press club was reportedly detained by authorities, prompting widespread outrage within the journalism community.
Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar described the incident as “extremely regrettable,” emphasizing that the press club is “like my own home” and asserting that no one has the right to breach its sanctity. He assured the public that a comprehensive investigation into the matter would be launched.
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi promptly responded to the situation by calling for a detailed report from the Islamabad Police Inspector General. He ordered an in-depth inquiry and emphasized that violence against media personnel “will not be tolerated under any circumstances.” State Minister for Interior Talal Chaudhry explained that the clashes began when some protesters allegedly mistreated police officers, including a Superintendent of Police and a Station House Officer. In an effort to control the situation, police entered the National Press Club, leading to a confrontation that intensified the conflict.
Chaudhry acknowledged that the police’s entry into the press club was “an unfortunate and sudden development.” He stated that the police action was an attempt to arrest individuals involved in clashes with law enforcement during the protest.In a rare move, Chaudhry issued an unconditional apology to journalists inside the press club. “As soon as I became aware of the incident, I condemned it strongly,” he said. “Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi immediately sent me here. On behalf of Islamabad Police and the Ministry of Interior, I sincerely apologize to all journalists. Your work is vital for safeguarding freedom of expression, and it is through your efforts that our voice reaches the masses.”
He added that an internal inquiry has been ordered by the Interior Minister, and any police personnel found responsible will face appropriate disciplinary action. The government has committed to accepting the decision of journalists’ representatives regarding the incident.Following the raid, senior officials, including Principal Information Officer Mubashir Hassan, arrived at the press club to engage with journalist leaders. The incident has reignited discussions about press freedom in Pakistan, with journalist unions demanding accountability for the police’s conduct. The Ministry of Interior has promised to share a detailed report once the investigation is complete, though no specific timeline has been provided.
