The wave of dissent in Pakistan-Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) has now reached Islamabad. Reports have emerged of police brutality and baton charges at the National Press Club. This action occurred during a protest organized by the Kashmir Action Committee, attracting widespread condemnation from human rights and media groups.
On Thursday, Islamabad police raided the National Press Club (NPC). The police forcefully entered the premises, attacking journalists and PoJK demonstrators.
This incident happened amidst protests against alleged atrocities and an internet blackout in PoJK. The police baton charges and destruction of media equipment have sparked outrage across the country.
Police’s Harsh Measures on Protesters
This forceful action by the police unfolded during a protest orchestrated by the Kashmir Action Committee against alleged abuses and the ongoing internet blackout in occupied Kashmir.
Source: aajtak
Reports suggest that members of the PoJK's legal community were staging a peaceful protest outside the NPC when police attacked, targeting them specifically. Eyewitnesses reported police baton charges and the destruction of media devices.
Source: aajtak
Condemnation from Human Rights Organizations and Journalists
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has vehemently condemned this attack. HRCP took to social media to voice its stern disapproval of this raid and the assault on journalists, demanding an immediate investigation and accountability for those responsible. This incident has triggered nationwide outrage and condemnation from human rights groups.
Political Leaders Demand Accountability
Renowned Pakistani journalist Zaid Gishkori also criticized the authorities, noting that the police's brutal raid on Islamabad Press Club raises serious concerns. He questioned how journalists' sanctum has become unsafe for those with no avenue for protest. Pakistan’s former UN envoy Maleeha Lodhi also termed the raid "deplorable," calling for accountability.
