Islamabad: The Pakistan government has placed Shahid Bhatti on the Provisional National Identification List (PNIL), blocking him from renewing his passport or NICOP after he harassed journalist Shahzeb Khanzada and his wife at a Toronto store.
Video of Nightclub Incident Sparks Online Uproar
Even as authorities moved against him, Bhatti who had presented himself as a staunch moral voice aligned with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) became the focus of a separate controversy. A circulating video from Canada shows him in a dimly lit nightclub, visibly intoxicated and dancing closely with a young woman.
The footage has drawn widespread attention online, with users mocking the stark contrast between his public rhetoric and the behavior captured on camera. Social media platforms have been flooded with memes and commentary, with many calling the incident a dramatic exposure of double standards. Bhatti has not responded publicly, while criticism of his conduct continues to grow.
Widespread Condemnation of Harassment Incident
Meanwhile, political leaders, journalists and civil society figures sharply condemned the harassment of Shahzeb Khanzada during his family outing. PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan joined voices across the political divide in denouncing the act, calling it unacceptable.
Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar described the harassment as “highly condemnable,” while Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb labeled it “shameful.” MQM-P leader Faisal Sabzwari also criticized the abuse directed at the Geo News anchor in the presence of his family.
Journalist Asma Shirazi, commenting on social media, called the incident a case of “targeted harassment” and warned against what she described as rising political intimidation.
Despite the provocation, Khanzada refrained from confrontation during the episode, a response several public figures praised as composed and responsible.
