New York, August 4, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Concerns over press freedom in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have intensified amid ongoing protests, with an international media watchdog alleging restrictions on reporting, internet shutdowns, and detention of journalists in the region.
The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has urged Pakistani authorities to end what it described as a crackdown on media professionals, restore access to information and allow independent reporting from PoK.
The organisation said independent Kashmiri journalist Syed Farhad Ali Shah remains in detention over his coverage of protests and expressed concern over his health after he began a hunger strike on July 28 in Bagh district.
“Authorities must ensure he has access to urgent medical care and immediately release him,” the CPJ said.
The press freedom group also raised concerns over journalists Razi Tahir and Muhammad Saif, who it said have remained missing after allegedly being taken away by men in police uniforms on August 1.
The CPJ called upon Pakistani authorities to clarify whether the journalists are in state custody, ensure due process and release them immediately if detained.
The organisation further cited claims by social media users that access to some international news websites had been restricted in Pakistan after coverage of the PoK protests. Several users reported difficulties accessing the Al Jazeera website, raising concerns over internet restrictions and the public’s access to independent information.
The reported restrictions come amid continued unrest in PoK, where protests have intensified in recent weeks. The CPJ also referred to reports of a partial internet blackout and severe telecommunications restrictions in the region since June 5.
The protests in PoK have reportedly witnessed clashes between demonstrators and security forces, with claims of large-scale casualties and injuries during the crackdown. These figures have not been independently verified.
The reported media restrictions and communication disruptions have triggered wider concerns over transparency, accountability and the ability of journalists to independently report during periods of political unrest.
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