Pakistani Journalist Faces Politically Charged Indictment Amidst Free Press Concerns

On October 31, 2025, journalist Matiullah Jan faces indictment in an Islamabad court under suspicious political motives. Human Rights Watch urges Pakistani authorities to drop these unsubstantiated charges linked to the 1997 Anti-Terrorism Act and possession of narcotics. The case underscores ongoing challenges for press freedom in Pakistan.

An Islamabad court is set to indict journalist Matiullah Jan on October 31, 2025, on charges deemed politically motivated by Human Rights Watch. The organization has called on Pakistani authorities to dismiss these baseless charges related to the 1997 Anti-Terrorism Act, citing the broader crackdown on press freedom.

Patricia Gossman of Human Rights Watch criticized the charges as an attempt to clamp down on critical journalism. Jan, who reported on police misconduct, faces allegations of possessing methamphetamine and resisting arrest. However, he claims the authorities' actions are in retaliation against his reports on police abuses during political protests.

Jan alleges that he was abducted under mysterious circumstances last year, leading to further accusations of his mistreatment by authorities. Human Rights Watch and other bodies urge the Pakistani government to protect journalistic freedom and consider the international covenants that protect freedom of expression, emphasizing the importance of public debate and journalistic integrity.

(With inputs from agencies.)