Jammu, March 13: A Jammu-based journalist has lodged a complaint at Police Post Chatta alleging that two persons attempted to stop his vehicle and intimidate him near Sunjwan on Friday afternoon.
According to the complaint filed by journalist Asif Iqbal Naik, the incident took place between 1:45 PM and 2:15 PM on March 13 near the Matador Stand in the Sunjwan area of Jammu. One of the accused has been identified as Huzaif Qureshi, son of Mohammad Iqbal Qureshi, a resident of Bhaderwah, who was reportedly accompanied by another associate riding a scooty.
In the complaint, the journalist alleged that the accused deliberately tried to place their scooty in front of his vehicle in an apparent attempt to block his way and confront him. Sensing danger, the journalist managed to drive away from the spot and headed directly towards Police Post Chatta.
The complainant further alleged that the two individuals chased his vehicle for some distance but fled after noticing that he had stopped outside the police post.
The journalist also stated that the accused had earlier shown hostility towards him after he reported a news story a few years ago related to a viral video in which the accused was allegedly seen in an intoxicated condition with some local girls in Bhaderwah. He further alleged that last year the accused had sent abusive and threatening messages on his social media page.
The incident has once again brought the issue of journalists’ safety into focus, particularly for those reporting on sensitive issues such as the crackdown against drug peddlers and Pakistan-sponsored terror networks in the region.
Media persons working on the ground often cover anti-drug operations, criminal networks and terror-related activities, which can expose them to intimidation, threats and attempts to obstruct their work.
Journalist Asif Iqbal Naik has requested the police to investigate the matter and take appropriate legal action against the accused to ensure his safety and prevent any untoward incident in the future.
The complaint has been submitted to the authorities at Police Post Chatta for necessary action.
