Journalist Azaz Syed Faces Threats from Extremist Groups in Pakistan
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed its support for journalist Azaz Syed, who is currently facing serious threats from extremist groups in Pakistan due to his reporting. In a recent post on X, the HRCP stated, “HRCP stands in solidarity with journalist Azaz Syed who has reportedly received threats from extremist groups in connection with his work. This must be taken seriously and those responsible held to account for inciting violence. Mr Syed must also be provided protection by the state.”
According to multiple reports, Azaz Syed is facing threats and a targeted online harassment campaign following his critical comments on blasphemy allegations and the rise of extremism in Pakistan. He had reportedly criticised the targeting of Chief Justice of Pakistan’s Supreme Court, Qazi Faez Isa.
Appointed as Chief Justice of Pakistan in November last year, Isa has faced death threats and widespread protests since February, particularly after he ordered the release of an Ahmadiyya man, Mubarak Sani, in a blasphemy case. In a post on X, Ayaz Syed stated, “The incident with Qazi Faez Isa has led to a campaign of character assassination and threats against me on social media and by phone, seemingly on the instructions of Allama Saad Rizvi from Tehreek-e-Labbaik, for the crime of calling it mistreatment and intolerance. I only believe in the power of reason and logic for understanding or explaining matters. However, if any harm comes to me or any member of my family, Saad Rizvi should be held responsible, and in any unfortunate event, a case should be filed against Saad Rizvi.”
Saad Rizvi is the leader of the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), a far-right political party known for its hardline stance on blasphemy and its calls for strict enforcement of Islamic law. Rizvi rose to prominence following the death of his predecessor, Khadim Hussain Rizvi, and has continued to rally significant support among those who advocate for extreme interpretations of Islam. His party often organises protests against perceived blasphemy and has been involved in violent demonstrations that demand strict action against those accused of disrespecting Islamic sentiments.
Doubts Revealed
Azaz Syed -: Azaz Syed is a journalist, which means he writes news stories and reports about important events happening around him.
Extremist Groups -: Extremist groups are organizations that have very strong and often harmful beliefs. They sometimes use violence to make others follow their ideas.
Pakistan -: Pakistan is a country in South Asia, located next to India. It has a rich history and diverse culture.
Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) -: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) is a group that works to protect people’s rights and make sure everyone is treated fairly in Pakistan.
Blasphemy Allegations -: Blasphemy allegations are accusations that someone has shown disrespect or insulted religious beliefs, which can be a very serious issue in some countries.
Allama Saad Rizvi -: Allama Saad Rizvi is a leader of a political and religious group in Pakistan called Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP).
Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) -: Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) is a political and religious group in Pakistan that has strong views about protecting their religious beliefs.
State -: In this context, ‘state’ means the government or the authorities in Pakistan who are responsible for keeping people safe and maintaining order.