Arrest of Journalist Naheed Akhtar, Jail Photo Goes Viral Retaliation or Reality
Haripur: The arrest of renowned journalist Naheed Akhtar and the viral spread of his jail photo have raised serious questions about the performance of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police. According to the police, Naheed Akhtar was arrested on charges of harassing a girl in public transport. However, the journalist community and his colleagues are calling this arrest an act of revenge.
According to a member of the Haripur Press Club and the Bureau Chief of Daily Jinnah Islamabad, a few days ago, Naheed Akhtar had supported an oppressed individual who was allegedly tortured by the police in the same police station. Naheed Akhtar exposed the illegal actions of the police, and now, the same officers have allegedly targeted him in retaliation.
Shahid Akhtar Awan: “This is an attempt to suppress press freedom”
Former presidential candidate of the Haripur Press Club, Shahid Akhtar Awan, has strongly condemned the arrest of Naheed Akhtar. He stated that arresting a fearless and honest journalist under false accusations is a dangerous trend. “This is not just an attack on one journalist but on the entire journalist community. If Naheed Akhtar does not get justice, we will launch a strong protest,” he added.
Defamation Campaign on Social Media?
The viral spread of Naheed Akhtar’s jail photo on social media is also being viewed with suspicion. His supporters claim that this is part of a well-planned smear campaign aimed at damaging his reputation. “Naheed Akhtar is not such a person; he is being deliberately defamed through a conspiracy,” said his close associates.
A Growing Controversy – Demand for Investigation
As this issue escalates, the police remain firm on their stance, while journalist organizations and civil society are expressing serious concerns over the arrest. The journalist community is demanding a transparent investigation and immediate justice for Naheed Akhtar.
