Laid-off Waqt photojournalist threatens self-immolation

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 20 December 2018

A Waqt newspaper photojournalist, Waqar Ahmed Babri, threatened self-immolation following his layoff amid widespread job cuts. The Joint Action Committee protested against the Jang Group's layoffs, leading to discussions between journalists and management.

Summary

LAHORE – A photojournalist of Waqt newspaper who was laid-off recently has threatened self-immolation if Thursday’s talks between a joint action committee of journalists and the Jang management failed.

The photographer, Waqar Ahmed Babri, is reported to have said it was better for him to kill himself instead of seeing his children die of hunger.

The Jang Group dismissed hundreds of workers last week while also shutting down some of its publications including Waqt, Inqilab, Awam, Daily News, and Jang Peshawar and Faisalabad.

The Joint Action Committee on Monday protested in front of the Jang offices in Lahore and locked up the premises. The protesters also burnt tires and blocked traffic.

Their action led to the management agreeing to hold talks, with the second round due to take place Thursday evening.

KEY POINTS:

• Waqar Ahmed Babri threatens self-immolation due to job loss.
• Jang Group has dismissed hundreds of workers recently.
• Joint Action Committee protests at Jang offices in Lahore.
• Protesters blocked traffic and demanded action.
• Second round of negotiations scheduled for Thursday evening.