ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): An Islamabad-based journalist has stated that he was harassed, threatened with death, and attacked with dogs while covering encroachments by a madrasa affiliated with Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) in the federal capital.
Journalist Tayyab Sarwar said he visited Jamia Ma’arif-ul-Sharia in Islamabad to obtain the administration’s position regarding a notice issued by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) over alleged violations of building regulations.
According to Sarwar, students present at the madrasa threatened him, unleashed dogs on him and harassed him by displaying weapons.
The journalist said he subsequently filed a formal complaint at Margalla Police Station against the administration of the JUI-F-affiliated madrasa, alleging harassment and death threats.
CDA Issues Notice Over Madrasa Operating in Residential Building
The controversy emerged after the CDA issued a notice to JUI-F regarding the use of a residential building in Sector F-8/3, Islamabad, as a madrasa, citing alleged violations of building regulations.
When Sarwar approached the madrasa to seek clarification about the CDA notice and the alleged building code violations, individuals associated with the institution reportedly threatened him.
The journalist alleged that armed individuals displayed weapons during the incident and that dogs were also unleashed against him.
Journalist Files Police Complaint Over Alleged Threats
Following the incident, Sarwar approached Margalla Police Station and lodged a formal complaint, seeking action against those involved in the harassment and threats.
The incident has raised concerns about journalists’ safety while performing their professional duties, particularly when seeking responses from individuals or institutions over matters of public interest.
The allegations also raise questions about security arrangements at the premises and compliance with the CDA’s building regulations.
Further details regarding the police response and the madrasa administration’s position were not available at the time of reporting.
