Pakistan Muslim League-N member of the National Assembly Chaudhry Naseer Abbas Sidhu has strongly condemned what he described as fabricated and retaliatory legal actions against journalists in Gujrat, pledging his full support for the local press amid tensions with the district administration. During a visit to the Gujrat Press Club, Sidhu criticized the registration of criminal cases against press members and called for peaceful dialogue rather than punitive measures.
Sidhu, who was welcomed by senior press club officials, emphasized that such cases marked an unprecedented and regrettable chapter in Gujrat’s history. He noted that he had already voiced his opposition in the National Assembly and promised ongoing advocacy to resolve the issue. He underscored the importance of dialogue, stating that registering cases only escalates tensions and fails to address the root of disagreements. Sidhu also revealed that he had spoken with the recently appointed District Police Officer and would soon meet the deputy commissioner to discuss the concerns of the journalistic community. He reaffirmed that journalists serve as guides to society and should not be treated as criminals, expressing hope for a positive resolution.
Abdul Sattar Mirza, President of the Gujrat Press Club, welcomed Sidhu’s support and credited it with bolstering the morale of local journalists. He cautioned authorities against appointing inexperienced officers to key positions in Gujrat, arguing that such appointments aggravate tensions between state institutions and the public. Mirza recalled the longstanding role of journalists as comrades of both security forces and citizens during times of crisis, and called it unacceptable for respected press members to face fabricated charges, particularly during the PML-N’s tenure.
Veteran journalist Muhammad Younas Saqi also addressed the gathering, praising Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu—Chaudhry Naseer’s brother—for his service and defending Naseer Abbas Sidhu’s record as a politician untainted by corruption. Saqi warned the local administration not to alienate the Gujrat Press Club, reminding all parties of the organization’s four decades of service to local development and social welfare. While expressing a preference for constructive engagement, he reaffirmed that journalists would not back down from defending their rights.
The gathering demonstrated a unified stand by the local press and political representatives, who called upon the authorities to resolve disputes through mutual dialogue and respect rather than confrontation or legal intimidation.
