Islamabad, October 2, 2025: A serious confrontation unfolded in the federal capital on Thursday when Islamabad Police stormed the National Press Club (NPC), vandalised its cafeteria, and allegedly assaulted journalists and staff members during a protest outside the club.
The protest was organised by the Azad Kashmir Awami Action Committee outside NPC. However, tensions escalated when police entered the premises, where journalists reported acts of violence and attempts to seize cameras and mobile phones from cameramen.
President of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), Afzal Butt, strongly condemned the incident, stating that the police had neither contacted NPC officials nor sought permission before storming the premises.
“Police manhandled the office-bearers and staff of the Press Club. They must be held accountable for this unlawful entry. We will stage strong protests against this action,” he said.
Karachi Press Club President Fazil Jamili also denounced the assault, calling it an attack on press freedom.
“The sanctity of the National Press Club has been violated. This is unacceptable, and there must be full accountability,” Jamili said.
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) demanded an immediate inquiry into the incident and strict action against those responsible.
MQM-Pakistan also issued a strong condemnation, describing the police raid as “unprecedented in Pakistan’s journalistic history.”
“The prime minister must immediately take notice of the police violence against journalists and cameramen. If arrests were required, the police should have formally approached the NPC president and cabinet members,” an MQM spokesperson said.
State Minister for Interior Talal Chaudhry, addressing a press conference at NPC, apologised on behalf of the Interior Ministry and Islamabad Police.
“I have been sent here by Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi. On behalf of the government, I tender an unconditional apology to journalists for this incident,” he said.
Earlier, police had forced their way into the NPC cafeteria, vandalising property and clashing with journalists and staff members, triggering widespread outrage across the media and civil society.
