Karachi Press Club President Fazil Jamili, Secretary Aslam Khan, and the governing body have strongly condemned the obstruction of journalists covering the Mir Raza murder inquiry commission. The incident involved ARY News senior court reporter Muhammad Asghar Umar, whose mobile phone was forcibly taken while he was recording video outside the commission’s proceedings.

In a statement, the Press Club termed the act “deeply regrettable and unacceptable,” stressing that harassment, intimidation, or the prevention of journalists from performing their professional duties is a grave violation of press freedom and freedom of expression.

The leadership demanded a transparent investigation, review of available video evidence, and legal action against the individual involved. They emphasized that journalists must be able to work without fear or pressure, particularly in sensitive cases of public importance.

The Press Club reaffirmed that the journalistic community stands united in defending press freedom and will raise its voice at all relevant forums to ensure the protection of journalists and their constitutional rights.