Journalist Benazir Shah faces severe harassment for advocacy

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 26 June 2024

Benazir Shah, a prominent journalist in Pakistan, has been severely harassed following her advocacy for the Christian community. This incident reflects the broader dangers faced by female journalists in the country.

Summary

ISLAMABAD—In a troubling incident highlighting the ongoing dangers faced by women journalists in Pakistan, Benazir Shah, a prominent journalist, has been subjected to severe threats and harassment.

The Coalition for Women in Journalism has expressed deep concern over the targeted assaults and intimidation Shah faces following her televised comments advocating for the protection of the Christian community in Punjab.

Shah's courageous stance on a sensitive issue has unfortunately led to a barrage of threats and violent rhetoric directed at her. This incident underscores the precarious situation for female journalists in Pakistan, who often encounter gender-based harassment and violence in response to their professional duties.

The Women Press Freedom, an organization dedicated to advocating for the rights and safety of women journalists, has condemned these acts of intimidation. They have urged the authorities to take immediate and decisive action to investigate the incidents and ensure that those responsible are held accountable. "We reiterate our demands that Twitter must address the rampant abuse and harassment on its platform," it said.

This is not an isolated case. In recent years, several women journalists in Pakistan have reported similar experiences. For instance, Asma Shirazi, a well-known journalist and TV anchor, has been repeatedly targeted online with threats and derogatory comments for her critical commentary. Another journalist, Gharidah Farooqi, has faced extensive online abuse, including threats of violence, due to her outspoken views.