Web Desk: A leading digital news outlet in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province has said it is facing pressure from authorities, vowing not to compromise on freedom of expression or journalistic standards.
Kashifuddin Syed, editor of Pakhtoon Digital, said the organization would continue to uphold independent reporting despite mounting challenges. His remarks came amid escalating tensions following a legal notice sent to the outlet.
He stated that the platform remains committed to publishing factual information in the public interest, adding that journalism’s core responsibility is to inform citizens without fear or favor.
Meanwhile, Amir Afridi, the brother of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Suhail Afridi, issued a legal notice seeking 50 million rupees (approximately $180,000) in damages against the outlet.
According to details, the notice was sent in response to reports published by Pakhtoon Digital, prompting the organization to adopt a firm stance. The notice questioned why tweets, analyses and commentary from senior journalists were being broadcast on the platform, describing the practice as inappropriate and demanding clarification.
However, Syed said the reports in question were based on statements, social media posts and video clips from credible journalists, and were published solely to present facts to the public.
Furthermore, Syed reiterated that the outlet would continue to raise what he described as the voice of truth despite external pressure. He added that the organization is fully prepared to contest any legal challenge.
The dispute highlights ongoing concerns about media freedom and the role of digital platforms in Pakistan, particularly as tensions grow between political figures and independent news organisations.
Read more: Coordinated Fitna Al Hindustan terror plot foiled across Balochistan
