The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), the global organisation of journalists representing over 500,000 journalists worldwide, is outraged over the brutal beating of journalist Zulfiqar Ali Khaskheli. Zulfiqar Ali Khaskheli, correspondent for the Sindh Language daily Ibrat was severely beaten after being arrested by the Nawabshah's chief of police for a story reporting gambling operations within the Nawabshah’s Police jurisdiction.

The IFJ has called for the suspension for the officers involved and a full inquiry into the incident.

The IFJ has protested to the President of Pakistan, General Pervez Musharraf, in the following letter:

22 April 2004

General Pervez Musharraf
President and Chief Executive of Pakistan

Via Email: [email protected]


Dear General Musharraf,

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), the global organisation of journalists representing over 500,000 journalists worldwide, is outraged over the arrest and brutal beating received by journalist, Zulfiqar Ali Khaskheli.

According to our information, Khaskheli, correspondent for the Hyderabad-based, Sindh language daily, Ibrat, may lose his eyesight and hearing as a direct result from a beating he received from police. Khaskheli was admitted to the People’s Medical College Hospital in Nawabshah, where he was chained and handcuffed.

Khaskheli was handcuffed and beaten brutally by the Nawabshah's chief of police, District Police Officer (DPO) Sarwar Jamali on 11 April for reporting on alleged gambling operations within the jurisdiction of the DPO. Khaskheli was released on bail on 21 April.

The IFJ condemns the actions taken by the Sindh police authorities and demands that the Government of Pakistan launch an investigation into the attack against Khaskheli. The IFJ demands that the DPO be immediately suspended for his actions and that an inquiry be held into this incident.

The IFJ reminds the Government of Pakistan to recognise that the use of violence to censor the media is an anathema to press freedom.

Yours sincerely,



Christopher Warren
President, IFJ


cc Federal Minister Information and Broadcasting
Mr. Sheikh Rashid Ahmed

Via Email: [email protected]

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