Khawar Ghumman rebukes Rizwan Razi over mockery of flood tragedy

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published 3 months ago |  JP Staff Report

ISLAMABAD — A heated exchange erupted on social media between senior journalist and anchor Khawar Ghumman and analyst Rizwan Razi, after Razi mocked one of Ghumman’s tweets regarding the devastation caused by recent floods.

Ghumman had posted a tweet along with a video of dead buffaloes from across the border, writing:

“In villages, if someone’s cow or buffalo dies, people formally visit the owner’s house to offer condolences. Due to the recent floods, such scenes of grief are now visible in every household.”

Responding sarcastically, Razi tweeted:

“To bring these Indian flood pictures into Pakistan, he crossed the border wearing a burqa—just like the cleric from Lal Masjid, he went to the Lahore High Court for bail, also disguised in a burqa.”

The comment sparked backlash, prompting Ghumman to issue a strong rebuttal.

“Mr. Rizwan, I have never met you in my life, nor do I have any such wish. From time to time, you make vlogs and comments about me, which of course is your right. No doubt, this video is of a farmer from across the border. The pain of farmers is shared on both sides.”

Ghumman went on to share the personal toll of the floods on his own village, Majra Kalan, located near Sialkot Airport.

“Our area has been hit by the Head Marala floods. Just in my own household, five animals (three large and two small) were swept away with the floodwaters. This is the story of every household. In my village alone, five people have died.”

Expressing disappointment over Razi’s remarks, Ghumman added:

“It is sad that in this hour of catastrophe, you find amusement. These days you have access to strong government sources—by all means, get this verified. May Allah grant both you and me life; whatever questions you have about me personally, I will surely answer them in person one day. Stay well.”

The exchange highlights the growing tensions between journalists on Pakistani social media, particularly around sensitive issues like natural disasters and their coverage. While Ghumman emphasized the human and agricultural losses suffered by communities in Punjab, Razi’s mockery underscored the polarized environment in which journalists often operate online.