Web Desk: Azaad Digital journalist has accused individuals at a madrassa linked to Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) of threatening to kill him, pointing a weapon at him and setting dogs on him while he sought comments on alleged building regulation violations in Islamabad.
Journalist Tayyab Sarwar said he visited Jamia Maarif Al-Sharia in Sector F-8/3 to seek the administration’s response to a notice reportedly issued by the Capital Development Authority (CDA).
However, Sarwar alleged that individuals present at the seminary, including students, threatened him, released dogs toward him and intimidated him with a firearm when he questioned the institution’s use of a residential building.
Following the alleged incident, Sarwar submitted a complaint to Margalla Police Station, seeking action over the reported death threats and harassment.
He said the confrontation occurred while he was carrying out his journalistic duties and attempting to obtain the madrassa administration’s position on the CDA notice.
The allegations have not been independently verified, and no police findings or response from the madrassa administration were provided.
Meanwhile, the CDA reportedly issued a notice concerning the use of a residential property as a madrassa in Sector F-8/3, citing alleged violations of building regulations.
The notice has raised questions about whether the property complies with Islamabad’s land-use and construction requirements.
Furthermore, Sarwar’s allegations concerning armed individuals and dogs at the premises have prompted additional questions about security arrangements and journalists’ ability to report without intimidation.
The incident underscores concerns about journalists’ safety while reporting on sensitive religious, political and regulatory matters.
Authorities have been urged to examine the journalist’s complaint, establish the circumstances of the alleged confrontation and determine whether any criminal offense occurred.
Read more: Dogs Set on Azaad Digital Reporter Over Madrassa Encroachment Coverage
