Journalists in Gujrat have launched legal action against the district administration after several senior reporters were allegedly detained and assaulted at a police station, escalating tensions between the press and local officials. The Electronic Media Association (EMA) convened an emergency meeting to denounce what they described as a campaign of bogus police cases against prominent media figures and to demand immediate accountability from authorities.
According to sources, the meeting, led by senior journalist Syed Zulfiqar Haider, was attended by senior reporters and bureau chiefs representing multiple television channels. The issue stems from a controversial police report, or FIR (First Information Report), filed against President of the Gujrat Press Club Abdul Sattar Mirza, former president Syed Naveed Shah, EMA President Zulfiqar Haider, and journalist Rana Shehzad. Journalists claim the report is false and alleges political motivations.
During the meeting, members were updated on ongoing negotiations with local officials and briefed on legal steps taken, including the submission of a writ petition to the court of Additional Sessions Judge Zafar Iqbal. The petition seeks action over the alleged unlawful detention and assault of Syed Zulfiqar Haider at the District Health Office.
Participants condemned a reported assault on journalists inside the police station, which they claim was carried out by individuals backed by health department officials and witnessed by senior police officers. The EMA issued a demand for the removal of Health Department heads Dr. Ataul Munim and Dr. Aitraz, whom they hold responsible for the incident. They also appealed to the newly appointed District Police Officer Rana Umar Farooq to ensure a fair investigation.
The press association emphasized the seriousness of the conflict, stating that the issue extends beyond a single police case to the principle of journalistic freedom and the safety of reporters in Gujrat. The journalists stated that CCTV footage of the alleged attack is available and called for strict legal action against those responsible.
In a joint statement, the EMA appealed to senior provincial authorities for intervention, including Punjab’s Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, IG Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar, and Commissioner Gujranwala Naveed Haider Shirazi. The association warned against attempts to silence the press, asserting their longstanding role in promoting peace and development in the region.
With tensions reaching new heights, Gujrat journalists have signaled their determination to fight what they see as a deliberate attempt to undermine press freedom in the district.
