RAWALPINDI: Journalists came under attack outside Adiala Jail on Monday when Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) workers allegedly manhandled senior reporter Tayyab Baloch during a media interaction with Imran Khan’s sister Aleema Khan.
Eyewitnesses said PTI supporters turned violent after proceedings in the Toshakhana-II case, roughing up Baloch and pushing other journalists, including Ejaz Ahmed and Faisal Hakeem. Cameramen and fellow reporters rushed to shield the assaulted journalist.
The incident prompted reporters to boycott Aleema Khan’s media talk, accusing PTI activists of harassment, threats and abusive language. Some journalists claimed the party’s social media teams had also been issuing threats in the days leading up to the incident.
Police officials, including SP Saddar and an ASP with reinforcements, arrived at the site soon after the scuffle. Officials confirmed that a formal complaint was being lodged at the Adiala police post and arrests would follow.
Read More: G-B police ban personnel from using TikTok
Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar strongly condemned the assault, calling it “intolerable.” In a statement on X, he said: “When arguments end, some elements resort to violence, which only shows their intolerance.” He assured full support to Tayyab Baloch in seeking justice.
PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari also denounced the incident, terming the behaviour of PTI workers “unacceptable” and warning that such assaults undermine freedom of the press, which he said was vital for democracy.
Journalist associations and media representatives expressed solidarity with Baloch and demanded action against those responsible. The incident also drew widespread criticism of PTI workers on social media for their treatment of journalists.
