Is Pakistan's Journalist Sohrab Barkat Facing Arbitrary Detention?
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Synopsis
The Human Rights Council in Pakistan raises alarms over journalist Sohrab Barkat's arbitrary detention, highlighting serious concerns about press freedom and legal integrity. His situation underscores the urgent need for protective measures for journalists in the country. Advocacy for his release and the cessation of politically motivated charges highlights the critical intersection of journalism and human rights.
Key Takeaways
- Arbitrary detention raises serious concerns about press freedom.
- Barkat's case illustrates the risks faced by journalists in Pakistan.
- The HRC calls for immediate release and withdrawal of charges.
- Legal mechanisms are being misused to prolong detention.
- Journalism is a protected activity that should not be criminalized.
Islamabad, Dec 19 (NationPress) The Human Rights Council (HRC) of Pakistan has voiced significant concern regarding the ongoing arbitrary detention, enforced disappearance, and judicial harassment of journalist Sohrab Barkat. This situation raises alarming issues pertaining to the respect for press freedom, due process, and constitutional protections within the nation.
Barkat, who serves as a correspondent for the news outlet Siasat, was reportedly apprehended at Islamabad International Airport while attempting to attend a United Nations conference on November 26.
The HRC indicates that Barkat was unlawfully moved to Lahore following his detention, only to be linked to multiple cases, despite formal statements to the Islamabad High Court asserting that no inquiry or case was against him, and confirming his freedom to travel.
“The inconsistency between court declarations and subsequent actions reveals a disturbing lack of respect for the rule of law,” the Council remarked.
The rights organization emphasized that the actions attributed to Barkat are directly connected to his professional role as a journalist, which involves conducting interviews, editing and publishing news, covering peaceful protests in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, and reporting on political dissent and human rights issues. These actions fall well within the legitimate and protected sphere of journalism.
The HRC raised alarms over reports indicating Barkat was detained without due legal process, presented late in court, repeatedly remanded without clear or sustainable charges, and denied proper access to family and legal representation.
“The emergence of various cases at critical junctures in the legal process seems intended to obstruct bail and extend detention, deepening concerns regarding the misuse of legal mechanisms,” the organization stated.
The HRC has called for the immediate release of Barkat, the retraction of all fabricated and politically motivated charges against him, and a thorough and transparent investigation into his kidnapping and treatment while in custody. They further urged the Pakistani authorities to cease the systematic harassment and intimidation of journalists, and to adhere to Pakistan's constitutional and international commitments.
“A free and independent press is crucial for any democratic society. Journalists must be able to hold those in power accountable and inform the public without fear of retaliation. Criminalizing journalism undermines democracy, accountability, and human dignity. The ongoing detention of Sohrab Barkat must end,” the rights body emphasized.
Point of View
I firmly believe that the integrity of journalism is paramount for a healthy democracy. The ongoing case of Sohrab Barkat raises significant concerns about the safety and freedom of journalists in Pakistan. It is imperative that we uphold the values of press freedom and due process to ensure accountability and transparency in governance.
NationPress
21/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of journalist Sohrab Barkat?
Sohrab Barkat is currently detained under circumstances that the Human Rights Council deems arbitrary, with serious implications for his rights and press freedom in Pakistan.
Why is the Human Rights Council concerned about Barkat's detention?
The Council is concerned due to reports of arbitrary detention, enforced disappearance, and judicial harassment, which challenge the fundamental principles of press freedom and due process.
What actions have been taken by the Human Rights Council regarding this issue?
The HRC has demanded Barkat's immediate release and the withdrawal of all politically motivated charges against him, along with a transparent investigation into his treatment.
