CHAKWAL (Crimereport
Senior journalist Syed Qulib Abbas has reported receiving repeated death threats, harassment, and physical assaults following his coverage of issues related to the Christian community and local churches in Chakwal.
Abbas told this correspondent that he has been threatened through phone calls, written letters, and social media messages, with some individuals accusing him of “supporting non-Muslims” because of his reporting on minority and religious issues.
According to Abbas, he has survived two violent attacks. In one incident, unidentified assailants attempted to abduct his children, while in another, he was assaulted on his way back from Rawalpindi. Following the most recent attack on November 18, 2024, he lodged a formal FIR with the police, submitting evidence including threatening letters and details of earlier assaults.
Expressing fear for his safety, Abbas said, “I can no longer live in this country under such conditions. My wife and children are also under threat — we could be killed like other journalists before us. I am being targeted for highlighting issues faced by Christians and for speaking against injustice.”
He added, “My journalism is for the weak and voiceless — minorities, women, and anyone denied justice. Reporting truth should never be punished with violence; such acts are an attack on press freedom and on society itself.”
Local press bodies, civil society organizations, and human rights groups have strongly condemned the threats and attacks, urging authorities to ensure a transparent investigation, arrest the culprits, and provide immediate protection to Abbas and his family.
Journalist safety advocates warned that such intimidation undermines freedom of expression and public accountability. “Attacks on journalists silence vital reporting and deprive citizens of information they need,” a local media observer said.
Abbas appealed for swift government action, vowing not to be silenced: “I will continue to speak for the helpless and demand justice.
