KPC demands withdrawal of case against investigative journalist Nadir Khan

KARACHI: The Karachi Press Club (KPC) has strongly condemned the registration of a case against investigative journalist Nadir Khan, calling it an attack on press freedom and freedom of expression.

The KPC demanded the immediate withdrawal of the case filed against the journalist, expressing serious concern over what it described as an attempt to silence members of the media through legal intimidation.

KPC terms case an attack on press freedom

In its statement, the Karachi Press Club characterised the registration of the case against Nadir Khan as a direct assault on the fundamental rights of journalists to carry out their professional duties without fear of retribution. The press club called upon the relevant authorities to take immediate steps to ensure the case is withdrawn.

The KPC emphasised that filing cases against journalists for their reporting work undermines the broader principles of press freedom and freedom of expression, which are essential pillars of a democratic society. The club urged that such measures not be used to intimidate or harass members of the media.

Press club demands protection for journalists

The Karachi Press Club reiterated its commitment to standing with journalists who face legal or other forms of harassment in connection with their professional work. The club called on the government and law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety and protection of journalists rather than subjecting them to legal proceedings that could have a chilling effect on investigative reporting.

The incident has drawn attention to the broader challenges faced by journalists in Pakistan, where press freedom organisations have repeatedly raised concerns about the safety and working conditions of media professionals. Cases registered against journalists for their reporting work have been a recurring issue, with press clubs and journalist bodies across the country frequently speaking out against such actions.

The KPC's demand for the withdrawal of the case against Nadir Khan reflects the growing unease within the journalist community over the use of legal measures to target reporters engaged in investigative journalism. The press club has called on all stakeholders to respect the role of the media in holding institutions accountable and to refrain from actions that could suppress journalistic inquiry.