https://twitter.com/home https://www.facebook.com/Shabbir.Hussain191By Shabbir Hussain
ISLAMABAD, Nov 28 (Alliance News): The ICT Police have reported the arrest of senior journalist Matiullah Jan in a terrorism case, drawing widespread condemnation from human rights organizations and journalists.
Prominent figures, including Dr. Sadia Kamal, President of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalist Workers, Khawaja Kashif Rafique, Editor-in-Chief of Daily Sub News, and senior journalist Majid Jarral, have demanded Jan’s immediate release and criticized the move as an infringement on press freedom.
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Majid Jarral, a Canada-based journalist, expressed his disapproval, emphasizing Matiullah Jan’s commitment to truth and journalism.
“The kidnappers of Matiullah Jan could not save such a life. No one else has the courage to bring the truth to the forefront as Matiullah Jan does,” Jarral stated.
He underscored Matiullah Jan’s dedication as a journalist who speaks not for partisan interests but for the truth itself, adding, “The truths written on the pages of history cannot be erased by those promoting fascism.”
Dr. Sadia Kamal condemned the arrest on social media, calling it unfortunate and urging the government to release Jan immediately.
She warned that if the government fails to act, protests will follow against what she described as an unlawful and brutal act against a journalist renowned for advocating for marginalized voices.
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The arrest reportedly followed an incident on Margalla Road in Islamabad. An FIR lodged at the Marga police station states that at around 2:15 am, police set up a checkpoint when a speeding vehicle approaching from F-10 failed to stop and deliberately drove into officers.
The driver, later identified as Matiullah Jan, allegedly exited the vehicle, assaulted a police constable, seized an SMG rifle, and threatened officials. Jan, who appeared intoxicated, was subdued, and a search of the car uncovered 246 grams of ice.
Jan faces charges under Section 7 of the Anti-Terrorism Act and other provisions for failing to comply with police orders, assault, weapon possession, and inciting public fear.
He was presented in court on the day of his arrest.
Earlier, Former President National Press Club (NPC) Shakeel Qarar termed Matiullah Jan arrest illegal and demanded off the govt to release the journalist immediately.
He has also shared the ICRA demands on his social media platform in favour of Matiullah Jan.
