Pakistani Police Raid Press Club, Attack Journalists Protesting PoK Violence; Home Minister Orders Probe

Police dragging a journalist by the collar at the Islamabad Press Club.

On Thursday, Pakistani police raided the Islamabad Press Club and attacked journalists and protesters demonstrating against atrocities and internet blackouts in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The violent crackdown sparked nationwide outrage.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has ordered an investigation into the incident. Viral videos show police beating journalists with batons during the clash.

3 Videos Show Journalists Being Beaten

Police Claim Journalists Were Mistakenly Targeted

Police stated they mistakenly targeted journalists while attempting to clear protesters outside the Press Club. Clashes erupted when protestors entered the Press Club premises, leading to baton charges. Journalists recording the incident were also assaulted.

Videos show police dragging protesters outside. At least two photographers and three Press Club staff were injured, with cameras and phones destroyed.

State Minister Apologizes to Journalists

Following backlash, State Interior Minister Talal Chaudhry apologized, stating protesters provoked police. He assured journalists of action against those responsible: “You amplify public voices—we support press freedom.”

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Pakistani Forces Fire on PoK Protesters: 10 Dead, 100 Injured; Violent Clashes Continue for 3rd Day

Violent protests continue in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) against government policies. Security forces fired on unarmed demonstrators Wednesday, killing 8 and injuring over 100. Read full story…