KUJ (Dastoor) Strongly Condemns Attack on Journalists Covering Rally; Demands Justice and Accountability

Karachi, September 29, 2024 — The Karachi Union of Journalists (Dastoor) expresses its strongest condemnation of the attack on journalists covering a rally by religious activists and organizations on Sunday. The rally was held in protest against the killing of Hizbullah leader Hasan Nasrullah in Lebanon on Friday night. The incident resulted in the torture of several journalists, including Geo News journalist Daniyal Syed, and caused damage to media vehicles.

In a statement issued by President Hamid-ur-Rehman, Secretary Syed Nabil Akhtar, and members of the governing body of the Karachi Union of Journalists (Dastoor), deep concern was expressed over the violent treatment of media personnel. The KUJ (Dastoor) leadership demanded that the leaders of the involved religious organizations take immediate steps to address the damage inflicted on news channels and issue an apology for the abuse and mistreatment of journalists.

“We view these attacks with grave concern. Journalists play a crucial role in informing the public and holding those in power accountable. Violence against journalists is a direct assault on freedom of the press and undermines the democratic principles upon which our society is built.”

Furthermore, the KUJ (Dastoor) calls upon the Sindh Home Minister, and the Karachi Police Chief to ensure strict legal action against those responsible for the attack. The authorities must bring the perpetrators to justice swiftly, to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future and to ensure the safety of media workers who play a critical role in upholding the right to information.

Journalists must be able to carry out their duties without fear of violence, intimidation, or obstruction, and we will not tolerate any attack on press freedom in the line of duty.

— Karachi Union of Journalists (Dastoor)