In Pakistan, a District and Sessions Court has prolonged the physical remand of journalist Asad Ali Toor by three days, following his initial five days in Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) custody. Toor’s detention has ignited outrage within the journalist community, who denounce it as harassment and an encroachment on free speech.
Numerous journalists and activists have rallied in protest against Toor’s arrest, demanding the immediate withdrawal of the vague FIR filed against him. They assert that treating a journalist as a criminal undermines the principles of professional journalism in the country.
Toor’s arrest reportedly stems from his social media commentary critical of the state and its officials. In a widely circulated video, he purportedly exposed irregularities in election results between February 8 and 9.
According to reports, FIA officials are actively pursuing Toor’s digital devices, including his cell phone. Toor himself revealed that he has commenced a hunger strike during his custody by the FIA.
Journalist Hamid Mir, commenting on the situation, alleges that the FIA is pressuring Toor to disclose his information sources. Mir contends that despite previous detentions, the agency has failed to produce substantial evidence against Toor, suggesting ulterior motives behind the recent accusations.
The plight of journalists in Pakistan has garnered attention globally, with many facing violent attacks, judicial harassment, and censorship for daring to critique the establishment. As Toor’s case unfolds, it underscores the precarious nature of journalism in Pakistan and the ongoing struggle for press freedom in the country.
