Pakistan Journalists Declare 'Black Day' After Violent Assault at Press Club

The Pakistan Journalists Union has called for a 'black day' on Friday in response to an alleged assault on journalists at the Islamabad National Press Club. According to Dawn, the incident occurred on Thursday, prompting the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) to express their anger and demand action.

As per reports, the Lawyers Community of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir were peacefully protesting at the press club when police intervened, leading to the violence. This marks six days of escalating protests across the region, inflamed by recent killings by security forces, Dawn reported.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has called for an investigation after police stormed the National Press Club, exacerbating public anger and calls for nationwide protests. Journalist unions have labeled the incident as an attack on media freedom, with visuals showing journalists being dragged and equipment destroyed.

Naqvi's statement decried the violence, asserting it would not be tolerated, and announced disciplinary measures. However, journalist leaders demand immediate, decisive action, warning that continued incidents could lead to stronger responses. Press clubs across Pakistan plan to hoist black flags in solidarity, emphasizing the widespread concern for press freedom.

PFUJ President Afzal Butt condemned the raid, describing it as 'one of the darkest days in Pakistan's history.' He warned of future repercussions if other press clubs faced similar attacks, with other media bodies blaming governmental authorization for the raid. Journalist leaders pledged unified action to prevent a recurrence of such behavior.

(With inputs from agencies.)