The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Islamabad granted bail to senior journalist Matiullah Jan in a drug trafficking case, setting his bail at Rs10,000. This decision came after the submission of a copy of the Islamabad High Court’s (IHC) order, which had earlier suspended the ATC’s physical remand of Jan. Judge Tahir Abbas Supra, presiding over the hearing, questioned the accusations against the journalist, expressing concern over the deteriorating state of journalism in the country. He questioned the merit of the accusations, particularly criticizing the claim that a journalist could be involved in drug consumption or trafficking.
The case, which has raised alarm about the relationship between media and authorities, has garnered significant attention. Matiullah Jan’s lawyer requested bail, and the judge noted that the prosecution should be ready for further proceedings. The judge’s remarks reflected a broader critique of the state of journalism in Pakistan, emphasizing the challenges faced by journalists in the country.
Also Read: Matiullah Jan’s Physical Remand Challenged in Islamabad High Court
Earlier, the IHC had intervened in the case, suspending the ATC’s order that had granted a two-day physical remand for Matiullah Jan in a terrorism and drug possession case. The IHC ruling followed a plea filed by Jan’s legal team, which argued that the First Information Report (FIR) did not substantiate the charges against him. The IHC also directed that Jan be placed on judicial remand rather than physical remand.
The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) expressed deep concern over the arrest and abduction of Jan, warning of potential countrywide protests if he was not released. In support of the journalist, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political and Public Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, condemned the charges against Jan as a “concocted and fabricated story.” Sanaullah compared the situation to his own past experience with fabricated charges and criticized the Islamabad police for filing the FIR. He also emphasized the importance of independent journalism in holding authorities accountable and uncovering the truth.
The case has sparked ongoing debates about press freedom and the treatment of journalists in Pakistan.
