Why Is the Targeting of Women Journalists in Pakistan Under Fire?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a shocking turn of events in Pakistan, the Human Rights Council has condemned the legal actions against women journalists, highlighting the ongoing struggles they face. This article delves into the implications for freedom of the press and women's rights in the country.
Key Takeaways
- Human Rights Council condemns PECA actions
- Case highlights struggles of women journalists
- Calls for unity in advocating for press freedom
- PFUJ criticizes misuse of PECA
- Urgent need for protective measures for journalists
Islamabad, Aug 19 (NationPress) The Human Rights Council (HRC) of Pakistan condemned the filing of cases under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) against four women journalists, labeling it an assault on freedom of expression.
The rights organization emphasized that the actions taken against journalists Nayyar Ali, Sehrish Qureshi, Maira Imran, and Shakeela Jalil heighten the already substantial challenges faced by women journalists in Pakistan.
“In a civilized society, the effectiveness of institutions is assessed by the involvement of women. Targeting women in the sensitive field of journalism with lawsuits and intimidation is profoundly regrettable,” stated the HRC Pakistan.
The council demanded swift justice for the affected journalists and urged protection against harassment. They called upon all journalistic organizations, civil groups, and human rights bodies to unite and advocate for the essential rights of women and the freedom of journalism in Pakistan.
In a related development, the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) criticized the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) for initiating legal cases against the four journalists from the National Press Club (NPC) in Islamabad, based on a complaint from another member.
Reports indicate that the journalists were part of a committee investigating a complaint made by one against her ex-husband, who is also an NPC member.
After the committee found both parties guilty of misconduct, the husband lodged a complaint with the FIA, resulting in the registration of a PECA case against the committee members.
He accused his ex-wife of harassment on social media, claiming the NPC members were complicit.
The PFUJ has repeatedly voiced concerns over PECA, fearing it may serve as a mechanism to coerce the media and suppress free speech.
They stressed that the FIA acted without allowing the four journalists any chance to respond, illustrating how this “black law” (PECA) can be misused against journalists involved in a harassment case.
PFUJ President Afzal Butt and General Secretary Arshad Ansari expressed solidarity with the targeted journalists and demanded the case be dropped.
“The PFUJ urges the Prime Minister and the Interior Minister to promptly dismiss the case filed against these senior women journalists. We also demand accountability for those who unlawfully lodged the complaint, as it constitutes harassment and intimidation of journalists,” the union's statement asserted.
“The PFUJ reiterates its call for the repeal of PECA, criticized for its potential to stifle freedom of expression and silence independent voices. The leadership warns that failure to address these demands could lead to protests nationwide. Journalists will persist in defending their rights and freedom,” the statement concluded.
Point of View
I stand firmly with the nation’s journalists advocating for their rights and freedoms. The targeting of women journalists under PECA is a serious threat to press freedom and highlights the urgent need for protective measures that uphold the integrity of journalism in Pakistan.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA)?
PECA is a law in Pakistan aimed at combating cybercrime, but it has faced criticism for being misused to stifle free speech and intimidate journalists.
Who are the journalists involved in this case?
The journalists targeted are Nayyar Ali, Sehrish Qureshi, Maira Imran, and Shakeela Jalil, all known figures in Pakistan's media landscape.
What actions has the Human Rights Council taken?
The HRC has strongly condemned the filing of cases against the journalists and called for immediate justice and protection from harassment.
What does the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) say?
The PFUJ has criticized the FIA's actions and called for the repeal of PECA, emphasizing its potential to curtail freedom of expression.
How is this situation impacting women journalists in Pakistan?
The targeting of women journalists exacerbates the challenges they already face in a profession fraught with difficulties, potentially discouraging their participation in media.
