JournalismPakistan.com | Published June 09, 2021
Join our WhatsApp channel
ISLAMABAD— In a signed statement, anchor Hamid Mir has offered regrets for his speech at a protest in Islamabad over the beating of journalist Asad Ali Toor.
“I respect army as institution,” the statement issued by Rawalpindi Islamabad Union of Journalist said. Along with Hamid Mir, the statement is signed by Shakeel Anjum, President of National Press Club, Amir Sajjad Syed, President of RIUJ, and Afzal Butt, a former president of Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ).
The statement said a committee of the RIUJ and NPC met with Mir in which he offered clarification on his speech.
Quoting Mir, it said that on May 28, at a protest in Islamabad, concern was expressed over attacks on journalists. “Attacks on journalists, including the one on me, have not been taken seriously.” He added he realized the impression created by his speech at the protest against the beating of Toor. “Under no pressure on my conscience, with complete responsibility and in line with recognized journalistic values, I want to make clear that I did not name any person in my speech. I have no fight with the army.”
Saying that he respects the institution of army, he added: “From Siachen to the Line of Control and from FATA to Balochistan, I have closely observed the sacrifices of army men, and covering them has been a source of pride for me.”
He said his aim was not to hurt anybody’s feelings, “but if my words have hurt anybody, please accept my regrets from the depths of my heart.”
The statement also requests the government to ensure that the attacks on journalists are halted. Attackers should be arrested and brought before the law. He also demanded completing the legislation to protect journalists.
April 30, 2025: Freedom of expression in Pakistan is under threat, as the 2025 Freedom Network report reveals increased arrests, censorship, and legal restrictions following amendments to PECA, posing serious risks to journalists and democratic values.
April 30, 2025: Dawn has criticized the Indian media's calls for war and condemned the banning of 16 Pakistani YouTube channels, urging a rational response after the Pahalgam attack that left 26 dead.
April 28, 2025: India has banned 16 Pakistani YouTube channels, including major news outlets and individual journalists, following the deadly Pahalgam attack. Tensions escalate as Islamabad demands a neutral probe.
April 23, 2025: Pakistani journalists respond in unison to a post hinting at a possible Indian military strike. Citing the 2019 ‘Swift Retort,’ they warn of a stronger response if provoked again.
April 21, 2025: After being expelled from PTI, MNA Sher Afzal Marwat launches personal attacks on journalists and Aleema Khan, sparking outrage on social media over his offensive remarks.
April 21, 2025: Journalist Sanaullah Khan reveals that the FIA has launched a financial crackdown on YouTubers by freezing the bank accounts of journalists and their family members—raising serious concerns over freedom of expression and legal process.
April 20, 2025: Dr. Nauman Niaz launched his fifteenth book, In A Different Realm: Story of Quadruple and Triple Centuries 1876–2025, at an elegant Islamabad event, reflecting on cricket’s rarest feats and his journey as a scholar of the game.
April 11, 2025: Sindhi journalist AD Shar was brutally murdered in Khairpur, Sindh. His body was found dumped on Handiyari Link Road. PFUJ has declared a three-day mourning period and demanded justice.
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.
April 22, 2025 Once a beacon of hope for Pakistan's cricket revival, the Pakistan Super League now grapples with stagnation and moral compromises. Can this cultural symbol reclaim its lost soul?
April 21, 2025 An Italian newspaper, Il Foglio, successfully published a month-long AI-written insert and praised its irony and analytical abilities, while affirming that AI will complement—not replace—quality journalism.
April 03, 2025 The International Press Institute (IPI) and International Media Support (IMS) invite nominations for the 2025 World Press Freedom Hero and Free Media Pioneer Awards. Recognizing courageous journalists and innovative media, the awards will be presented at IPI’s 75th-anniversary World Congress in Vienna. Submit your nominations by April 30, 2025.
April 01, 2025 Photojournalist Suresh Rajak was burned alive while covering a violent protest in Kathmandu. The IFJ and its affiliates condemn the attack and call for an urgent investigation to hold the perpetrators accountable.