Shutdowns, threats, and murder: The high cost of ARY News’ bold reporting

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published last year |  JP Staff Report

ISLAMABAD—ARY News, a prominent name in Pakistani journalism, has navigated a turbulent journey marked by its fearless approach to reporting. Launched on September 26, 2004, as "ARY One," the channel evolved into "ARY News" in 2009, carving out a reputation for its daring coverage and resistance against governmental pressures. This commitment to truth, however, has not come without significant costs.

The most poignant example of this high price is the tragic murder of Arshad Sharif (pictured), one of ARY's most fearless journalists. Sharif's exposure of governmental malpractices and his unwavering stance against corruption earned him both accolades and enmity. Facing escalating threats, he fled Pakistan, seeking refuge in Dubai. Despite his attempts to evade danger, the political and powerful forces tracked him to Kenya, where he was brutally murdered in October 2022. His death underscores the extreme risks associated with challenging entrenched power structures.

In August 2022, nearly two months before his brutal murder, ARY News dismissed Sharif. The channel cited a violation of its employee's social media code of conduct as the reason for his termination. ARY News asserted that its code mandates all social media posts by employees must adhere strictly to the company's policies. Despite this, Sharif continued exposing the wrongdoings of the PML-N government on his YouTube channel from abroad.

Sabir Shakir, another courageous ARY journalist, faced direct threats from former Army Chief Gen. (Retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa. Shakir had been receiving death threats since April 2022 and, following these alarming developments, he resigned from ARY News in May 2022 after a 17-year tenure. His exit was a stark reminder of the severe personal risks faced by journalists who dare to question authority.

ARY News has also confronted institutional and state-imposed challenges. In August 2022, the channel experienced a 24-day blackout, a severe punitive measure by PEMRA for airing a controversial comment by PTI leader Shahbaz Gill. The channel's insistence on its neutrality and Gill's comment being a personal opinion did little to stave off the consequences, which included the cancellation of its NOC and the arrest of its head of news, Ammad Yousaf.

The channel's commitment to bold journalism has not only attracted threats but also physical violence. In August 2014, an attack by shooters resulted in the murder of its assignment editor Irshad Mastoi, and two others in Quetta. Similarly, in January 2016, ARY’s Islamabad office was targeted by gunmen, leading to injuries and significant damage.

Despite these adversities, ARY News continues to be a stalwart in investigative reporting. Anchors like Iqrar ul Hassan, known for his program "Sar-e-Aam," have endured multiple attacks, further illustrating the personal dangers involved in uncovering societal ills.

The story of ARY News is not just one of challenges but of relentless determination to uphold journalistic values amidst adversity. As the network marks its 24th anniversary, the narrative of its struggle highlights the profound cost of fearless reporting in Pakistan—a testament to the sacrifices made in the pursuit of truth and justice.

Salman Iqbal, President and CEO of ARY Digital Network, affirms the network’s steadfast commitment to Pakistan’s betterment, despite the considerable costs endured. His statement, "Our agenda is clear; we only work for Pakistan’s betterment," reflects ARY News’ unwavering dedication to its mission, regardless of the personal and professional sacrifices involved.