TTP warns Pakistani journalists

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 6 September 2021

Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan has warned reporters against labeling them as terrorists, threatening repercussions for perceived media bias. The group insists that journalists should use their official name to avoid being disloyal to their profession.

Summary

ISLAMABAD— Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has warned Pakistani journalists that they should stop labelling them as a terrorists or extremists group or be ready to face severe consequences.

TTP said labeling the outfit with such tags was a sign of prejudice.

“We demand all the local and foreign journalists and media departments in the country that they must refrain from being biased in the fight between the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and the security forces,” TTP Spokesperson Mohammad Khurasani said.

“We know that journalists are referring us as terrorists and extremists which is a clear vindication of media bias,” the spokesperson said.

Khurasani said being prejudiced was a blot on the media as they could not justify using the description chosen by its enemies.

“Call us as the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan. Otherwise you will be disloyal to your profession and it will only help make enemies for you,” Khurasani warned.

KEY POINTS:

• TTP warns journalists to stop labeling them as terrorists.
• Spokesperson Mohammad Khurasani highlights media bias.
• TTP claims such labels are a sign of prejudice.
• Failure to adhere may result in consequences.
• The group demands neutral reporting from media.