Police Assault Journalists Covering Protest in Muzaffarabad; Press Freedom Under Threat in Kashmir

Muzaffarabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) — On April 28, 2025, journalists in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Pakistan-administered Azad Jammu and Kashmir, were subjected to police violence while covering a protest organized by the Maternal, Neonatal & Child Health (MNCH) employees. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation from media organizations and human rights groups, raising serious concerns about press freedom and the safety of journalists in the region.​

During the protest coverage, police forces reportedly assaulted several journalists, including Hamza Katil of ABN News, Kamran Mughal, and Muqaddas Gilani. Hamza sustained severe injuries and was promptly transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. The attack occurred as journalists were documenting the MNCH employees’ demonstration, which was part of a broader movement addressing grievances related to healthcare services and workers’ rights.​

In response to the assault, the Young Journalists Forum (YJF) and other media bodies have demanded the immediate suspension of the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) and Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) involved in the incident. They are also calling for the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) against the officers responsible for the violence. The YJF has threatened to escalate protests across the state if their demands are not met by the evening of April 28.​

The district administration, including the Deputy Commissioner, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Assistant Commissioner, and other officials, engaged in negotiations with the protesting journalists. While the administration acknowledged the journalists’ concerns and issued an unconditional apology, the initial round of talks ended in a deadlock. Both parties agreed on the need to establish a liaison mechanism for field reporters to prevent future incidents, but key demands regarding accountability and legal action remain unresolved.​

This incident is part of a broader pattern of unrest in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. In recent weeks, the region has witnessed significant protests led by the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JKJAAC), advocating for affordable electricity, subsidized wheat flour, and the abolition of elite privileges. Clashes between protesters and security forces have resulted in injuries to both civilians and police officers, with reports of teargas shelling and aerial firing by law enforcement agencies .​

Human rights organizations have expressed alarm over the increasing suppression of dissent in Pakistan-administered Kashmir. The CIVICUS Monitor highlighted the targeting of activists and journalists, increased controls on online expression, and crackdowns on protests in its recent report . These developments have raised concerns about the erosion of civil liberties and press freedom in the region.​
Civicus Monitor

As the situation unfolds, journalists and civil society groups continue to demand accountability and the protection of fundamental rights. The events in Muzaffarabad underscore the challenges faced by media professionals in conflict-affected areas and the critical need for safeguarding freedom of expression.​