JournalismPakistan.com | Published October 22, 2021
Join our WhatsApp channel
ISLAMABAD—Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has again taken serious notice of intimidation, threats, and abusive language against journalist and presenter Asma Sherazi by the special assistant and prime minister's spokesperson Shahbaz Gill.
Gill leveled unfounded, uncalled-for, and unethical allegations against the female journalist in a press conference at PID Islamabad.
In a joint statement, President PFUJ Sahzada Zulfiqar and Secretary-General Nasir Zaidi warned of severe consequences of the tirade against Asma Sherazi. They said that such behavior of the prime minister's official spokesperson reflects the training and mental capacity of a cabinet member who is supposed to improve media-government relations instead of widening the gulf between them.
"Hurling threats, using abusive and uncalled-for language, and igniting religious sentiments against a journalist and that too against a female will not improve the performance of the government," they reminded.
PFUJ leadership, while extending full support to Asma Sherazi, said that she, in her piece in BBC Urdu, had not mentioned any name. Instead, she warned of "worsening economic crisis, price hike and people's difficulties in meeting the expense of life," they said.
Both the leaders said, "It is a matter of serious concern that Mr. Shahbaz Gill is in the habit of maligning journalists in controversies, dictating media personalities, and passing serious threats in press conferences, talk shows and indulging in online attacks and trolling, which seems the official policy of PTI government."
They asked that when Asma Sherazi had not mentioned the name of the first lady, then "why official spokesperson of the Prime Minister is repeatedly saying her name online and held a press conference on a nonexistent issue?"
They urged the prime minister to investigate the conduct of Shahbaz Gill and some other leaders. They are unwontedly mentioning the name of the first lady, which gives the impression of some hidden agenda and ulterior motives of these elements in the federal cabinet. "We will not allow such acts against the journalist community, particularly against a female journalist and media workers."
July 08, 2025: As Pakistani authorities move to block YouTube channels of journalists, censorship tightens. Yet, social media has emerged as a defiant force, keeping the spirit of free speech alive despite increasing state control.
July 08, 2025: The Supreme Court of Pakistan has acquitted a murder accused, ruling that confessions made to the media while in police custody are inadmissible. Justice Athar Minallah emphasized due process and transparency in legal proceedings.
July 08, 2025: The Pakistan government has approached a court seeking the removal of several YouTube channels operated by prominent journalists, accusing them of spreading false information and provoking unrest against state institutions.
June 11, 2025: Pakistan celebrated a narrow win over Bangladesh, but beneath the jubilation lies a deeper crisis—from sidelined veterans to a collapsing domestic structure—signaling an urgent need for cricket reform.
June 11, 2025: Journalists walked out of the post-budget press conference in Islamabad to protest the absence of a technical briefing and the government's dismissive behavior, calling it unacceptable and intolerable.
May 31, 2025: Dr. Nauman Niaz has issued a defamation notice to Shoaib Akhtar over derogatory remarks made during a recent broadcast, reigniting a longstanding media feud between the two prominent figures in Pakistan.
May 30, 2025: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan has demanded the full repeal of PECA, citing its vague language, coercive powers, and threats to free speech and digital rights in Pakistan.
May 30, 2025: The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has condemned the murder of journalist Syed Mohammed Shah in Jacobabad, calling for urgent justice and improved safety for media professionals in Sindh.
May 19, 2025 PJS reports 219 Palestinian journalists killed in Israeli attacks since October 7, with 30 women among the victims. Over 430 were injured and 685 family members were killed. Read more on the systematic targeting of media in Gaza.
May 15, 2025 Discover the legacy of Samiullah Khan, Pakistan’s legendary "Flying Horse," whose breathtaking speed and artistry redefined hockey. From Olympic glory to World Cup triumphs, his story is one of myth, movement, and magic.
May 04, 2025 Algerian authorities suspend Echorouk News TV for 10 days after it used a racist slur against African migrants. ANIRA demands an apology, calling it a violation of human dignity.
May 04, 2025 NCHR and MMfD launch a journalism fellowship to train reporters on digital rights & gender inclusion in Pakistan. Supported by UNESCO, this initiative aims to bridge the gender digital divide. Apply by May 15, 2025!
April 23, 2025 Discover Dr. Nauman Niaz’s In A Different Realm: Story of Quadruple & Triple Centuries 1876–2025, a profound exploration of cricket's most monumental innings, blending historical analysis with poetic narrative.