The Karachi Press Club (KPC) has issued a strong condemnation over the recent registration of a legal case against investigative journalist Nadir Khan, describing the move as a blatant assault on the fundamental rights of press freedom and freedom of expression. The case, reportedly filed by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), has sparked widespread concern among media circles and civil society advocates who view it as an attempt to intimidate independent journalism.
In an official statement, KPC President Fazil Jamili, Secretary Aslam Khan, along with members of the executive council, expressed their deep disapproval of the NCCIA’s decision to initiate proceedings against Nadir Khan without any prior notice or formal inquiry. They highlighted that such actions not only undermine the legal framework but also represent a deliberate effort to stifle voices that are critical of prevailing issues. The KPC leadership emphasized that this case was registered at a time when Pakistan is grappling with multiple challenges that require national solidarity rather than divisive tactics.
“The registration of this case without following due legal process is a clear violation of established procedures and appears to be a calculated move to suppress independent journalism,” the KPC officials stated. They further warned that these kinds of measures could set a dangerous precedent, discouraging journalists from pursuing investigative reporting that holds power to account. The club underscored the essential role of a free press in a democratic society, especially during periods of political and economic uncertainty.
In a related development, the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists-Dastoor (PFUJ-D) also voiced its strong opposition to the case. The union’s President Haji Muhammad Nawaz Raza, Secretary General AH Khanzada, and other executive members described the legal action as a conspiracy aimed at curtailing freedom of expression. Their joint statement expressed grave concern over the manner in which the case was lodged, pointing out that it lacked transparency and appeared to be motivated by political considerations rather than genuine legal grounds.
The controversy reportedly stems from a news report by Nadir Khan that alleged a ship arriving at Port Qasim was detained by the Federal Investigation Agency’s Anti-Corruption Circle on suspicion of smuggling LPG gas. the report, the authorities were scrutinizing the ship’s crew and documentation as part of an ongoing investigation. The PFUJ-D representatives argued that filing a case against the journalist without proper procedure is a serious threat to journalistic independence and freedom. They cautioned that such intimidation tactics could have a chilling effect on media professionals who strive to expose corruption and wrongdoing.
Both the Karachi Press Club and PFUJ-D have called upon Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the relevant government agencies to intervene promptly and ensure the immediate withdrawal of the case. They stressed that resolving this issue amicably is crucial to maintaining a constructive relationship between the government and the media, particularly at a time when the country faces significant socio-political and economic pressures. The journalist community insists that protecting press freedom should be a priority to uphold democratic values and public trust.
