RAWALPINDI: A routine media talk by Imran Khan’s sister took a sour turn on Monday after a number of journalists were accosted by party supporters, ostensibly for asking ‘provocative questions’.
Subsequently, Aleema Khan, Naeem Panjutha and 40 other PTI-linked activists were booked over the alleged attack on journalists, and charged with hurling threats, committing robbery, causing damage to property and unlawful assembly.
Police sources said two suspects have already been arrested, while raids are underway to apprehend the rest of the accused.
The incident occurred outside Adiala Jail on Monday, when a group of journalists assembled for a media talk by Ms Khan following proceedings in the Toshakhana case.
In his complaint, Tayyab Baloch — a reporter for Bol TV — stated that he and other journalists were on duty near Adiala Jail’s Gate No. 1 at around 3:55pm when Ms Khan appeared after the court hearing.
Naeem Panjutha among 40 booked; three in custody, raids underway to nab other suspects
He alleged that after Ms Khan began her media talk, Mr Panjutha suddenly shouted that he should be “taught a lesson” for asking her a question about properties. At this point, the FIR claimed, two individuals allegedly grabbed him, while around 35-40 people, started beating him.
During the assault, someone also snatched his mobile phone and smashed his microphone, the FIR said.
Mr Baloch claimed that other journalists who tried to rescue him were also assaulted. He maintained that the motive behind the attack was a question he had asked Ms Khan regarding the purchase of properties in the US, which angered her.
In a statement, journalist bodies announced a demonstration outside the National Press Club today (Tuesday) to protest against the PTI leadership and demand an apology for the incident that occurred during Aleema Khan’s press conference.
A few days ago, two women were taken into custody by police for throwing eggs at Aleema Khan during a media talk outside Adiala Jail, where the proceedings on the Toshakhana case were held on Friday.
A statement issued by the Rawalpindi police said the two women, who threw eggs, were PTI supporters who had travelled to Rawalpindi with members of the All-Government Employees Grand Alliance and the All-Pakistan Clerks Association from KP to protest in support of their demands.
Published in Dawn, September 9th, 2025