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Journalists in KP condemn attacks, demand accountability
JournalismPakistan.com | Published: 16 March 2026 | JP Staff Report
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Journalists across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa condemned attacks, alleged torture and harassment, boycotted police coverage and held protests. Press clubs in Bara, South Waziristan and Lower Dir demanded immediate arrests and accountability.Summary
PESHAWAR — Journalists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have united to condemn recent attacks and alleged harassment, calling for swift accountability and stronger protections for press workers. The incidents have sparked boycotts of police coverage and protests across multiple districts.
Journalists in Bara, Khyber district, reported that Counter-Terrorism Department personnel allegedly arrested and tortured senior journalist Qazi Rauf. A delegation from the Bara Press Club met with District Police Officer Waqar Ahmed to demand immediate action against the officials involved.
Boycott of police coverage continues despite police apology
DPO Waqar Ahmed later visited the Bara Press Club, offering an apology and expressing regret over the incident. Club members, however, insisted that the boycott of police coverage would continue until concrete action is taken against those responsible.
Widespread condemnation extends to South Waziristan and Lower Dir
The District Press Club Wana in South Waziristan strongly denounced the alleged mistreatment, calling it a direct attack on press freedom. Press Club President Qismatullah Wazir emphasized the need for accountability for those targeting journalists during protest coverage.
In Lower Dir, the Chakdara Press Club convened a joint meeting following an attack on senior journalist and club chairman Muhammad Israr Khan in Shalam Baba. Participants demanded immediate arrests and announced protest demonstrations against threats and assaults on media personnel.
WHY THIS MATTERS: These incidents highlight persistent safety risks for journalists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, demonstrating the urgent need for enforcement of press protection laws. Media organizations in Pakistan can draw lessons on coordinated advocacy, collective action, and the importance of holding authorities accountable to safeguard journalistic work.
PHOTO: AI-generated; for illustrative purposes
Key Points
- Senior journalist Qazi Rauf in Bara was allegedly arrested and tortured by Counter-Terrorism Department personnel.
- Bara Press Club delegation met DPO Waqar Ahmed to demand action against officials involved.
- DPO offered an apology, but journalists say the police coverage boycott will continue until concrete action is taken.
- District Press Club Wana in South Waziristan condemned the incidents as attacks on press freedom.
- Chakdara Press Club called for immediate arrests and announced protest demonstrations over threats and assaults on media personnel.
Key Questions & Answers
What triggered the protests by journalists?
Alleged arrests, torture and attacks on reporters across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa prompted boycotts of police coverage and protests; journalists demand accountability and safer working conditions.
Who is the journalist allegedly targeted in Bara?
Senior journalist Qazi Rauf was reportedly arrested and tortured by Counter-Terrorism Department personnel, according to local press club members.
How did police respond to the allegations?
District Police Officer Waqar Ahmed visited the Bara Press Club and offered an apology; club members maintain the boycott until officials are held accountable.
What are journalists demanding from authorities?
They are urging immediate arrests of those responsible, transparent investigations and stronger protections to safeguard press freedom.
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