Journalists’ bodies protest police high-handedness, demand DIG Faisal Kamran’s suspension

LAHORE (RNN TV) — A large meeting of various journalist organizations was held at the Lahore Press Club (LPC) on Sunday, where senior leadership of the club, including President Arshad Ansari, Senior Vice President Afzal Talib, Joint Secretary Imran Sheikh, Finance Secretary Saliq Nawaz, General Secretary Zahid Abid, and members of the governing body were present.

Representatives of the Crime Reporters Association, Punjab Union of Journalists, Photographer Association, and several other groups also participated in the gathering. During the session, victims of Shahdara police also came forward and shared how they were allegedly subjected to violence by police officials merely for visiting a police station to clarify their stance on a news report.

According to the victims, Inspector Hassan, known for his aggressive conduct, not only manhandled journalists and lawyers but also imposed an unlawful restriction barring cameramen from entering the station. They alleged that the SHO was running the police station like his personal domain, outside the ambit of law.

Separately, the gathering also condemned Punjab Police DIG Faisal Kamran, calling him a “controversial officer.” It was noted that his presence had led to the boycott of the Punjab Assembly session, which was adjourned despite an important agenda. Participants alleged that Kamran had been declared guilty in an establishment inquiry two-and-a-half years ago, yet controversially received two promotions during the course of the inquiry.

Speakers expressed astonishment at how an officer under inquiry could continue to receive postings and promotions, terming it a dangerous precedent in Punjab Police’s history. The meeting concluded with the resolve that the journalist community would continue to highlight and resist what they termed the misuse of authority, favoritism, and unlawful practices within the Punjab Police.

The meeting unanimously resolved to continue the protest until the suspension of DIG Kamran Faisal.