A violent raid on the National Press Club (NPC) by Islamabad police on October 2, 2025, has triggered outrage from media bodies, rights groups, and political leaders. Journalists say the police forcibly entered the NPC, beat media workers, damaged equipment, and vandalised property—sparking calls for accountability and urgent investigations.
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What Happened
- Police officers, batons drawn, stormed the National Press Club in Islamabad amid a demonstration by the Azad Jammu & Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC).
- The officers did not limit themselves to outside. Many entered the club premises — including the cafeteria — where journalists were having tea. Several media workers were beaten.
- Cameras and phones were smashed; furniture was damaged. Officers also allegedly attempted to snatch devices from journalists documenting the events.
- Some people inside, including press club staff and office-bearers, were beaten. A few were briefly arrested and later released.
Reactions & Condemnations
- The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) condemned the raid, calling it an attack on press freedom and a “home” for journalists that was violated by police force.
- Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi immediately ordered a probe and directed the Inspector General of Police in Islamabad to submit a report. He declared that violence against journalists is unacceptable.
- State Minister for Interior Talal Chaudhry visited the NPC, offered apologies for what happened, and described the incident as “unconditional apology” for holding journalists. The
- Rights group HRCP (Human Rights Commission of Pakistan) and senior journalists like Hamid Mir, Matiullah Jan, Zebunnisa Burki publicly condemned the assault.
- Political parties also spoke out. The PPP (Pakistan Peoples Party), through Shazia Marri, called the attack “regrettable” and demanded strong action against those involved.
Key Issues Raised
- Many journalists inside the NPC said they identified themselves as media workers but were still attacked.
- The police are alleged to have forced entry even when journalists told them there were no protesters inside. Despite that, the raid continued.
- Media equipment belonging to journalists was damaged. One cameraman’s camera was broken; others said phones were seized or broken.
- Office-bearers and staff of the press club say this was unprecedented in terms of violence and disrespect toward journalists and their workplace.
What Government Says
- Officials claim the police action happened while officers were attempting to arrest protesters from JAAC who had allegedly manhandled police. The protest was supposed to happen outside but spilled toward or into the NPC.
- The Interior Ministry has reportedly said the police entry was not ordered directly by the minister.
- An internal inquiry has been ordered. Officers found responsible may face disciplinary measures.
Why It’s Important
- The NPC is seen as the home ground of journalists — a place where media professionals can gather, hold press conferences, and work. Storming it is viewed not just as violence, but a symbolic violation of press freedom.
- Journalists say if such incidents are allowed without response, it will chill free reporting, making media workers fearful of retaliation.
- The incident has mobilized media bodies across Pakistan; many clubs and unions have vowed to protest and insist on protections, accountability, and legal safeguards. TV+1
Current Status & Next Steps
- Probe by Islamabad’s police leadership is underway. Findings, if made public, could determine what disciplinary or legal action will follow.
- Journalists are holding emergency meetings to decide on collective actions — protests, legal cases, or demands to government.
- Media and rights groups are pushing for policies that prevent police or security forces from entering press club premises without permission.
