ISLAMABAD – The Rawalpindi-Islamabad Union of Journalists (RIUJ) has voiced strong condemnation over the mistreatment of journalists by Rawalpindi police, particularly in an incident involving RIUJ President Tariq Ali Virk and other members near the Newtown Police Station. The incident, which occurred during coverage of a local event, has sparked serious outrage within the journalist community.
RIUJ General Secretary Asif Bashir Chaudhry, along with other union leaders, issued a statement demanding immediate action against those responsible. The union has called the incident a direct attack on press freedom and warned that if justice is not served, a nationwide protest campaign will be launched.
According to RIUJ officials, while covering a news event, President Tariq Ali Virk was misbehaved with by a police official and verbally abused. The situation escalated despite repeated requests to respect the presence of media. Witnesses confirm that the journalists were peacefully doing their jobs when police officers responded with hostility.
Asif Bashir Chaudhry, speaking on behalf of RIUJ, said, “Journalists will never remain silent on such blatant abuse of power. The mistreatment of union leaders is an insult to the entire journalist community. We will not tolerate this. The police must be held accountable, and we demand an immediate and transparent inquiry.”
RIUJ has called on the higher authorities, including the federal government and Punjab leadership, to ensure the safety and dignity of journalists. They are also urging action against those officers who misused their power.
RIUJ further stated that if their demands are not met, they will organize a protest outside the Rawalpindi Press Club and file a legal case against the responsible officials.