PTI workers clash with journalists at Aleema Khan’s press briefing

RAWALPINDI:

A media talk by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan’s sister, Aleema Khan, outside Adiala Jail once again descended into chaos on Monday, as party workers turned on journalists for asking tough questions.

Tensions had been running high since last week’s incident, when two women hurled eggs at Aleema during a press conference at the same venue. The egg-throwing episode was reportedly triggered by journalist Tayyab Baloch’s sharp questions, which went unanswered at the time.

Determined to prevent a repeat of the embarrassment, PTI workers allegedly tried to take control from the start of Monday’s presser, blocking Tayyab from asking questions.

However, the journalist persisted with the same queries as before, sparking outrage among the workers. The situation quickly escalated into pushing and shoving, with Tayyab bearing the brunt of the assault.

Ironically, no senior PTI leader intervened to calm the workers as they manhandled journalists. In protest, the media fraternity boycotted Aleema’s briefing, citing the party’s failure to curb the misconduct of its workers and its leadership’s indifferent attitude.

Last week’s egg-hurling incident had already put PTI in the spotlight. According to a Rawalpindi police spokesperson, the two women involved—reportedly affiliated with PTI—were taken into custody after Aleema refused to answer questions during the earlier press talk.

Journalists have repeatedly pressed Aleema to respond to allegations raised by mmar Solangi in a tweet, accusing her of purchasing properties using donation funds. Tayyab claimed he faced an orchestrated social media campaign and even threats after raising the issue during last week’s interaction.

Aleema Khan is struck by an egg during a media talk on Friday. Photo: NNI

Meanwhile, the attack on Aleema drew sharp criticism across the political divide, with both treasury and opposition lawmakers condemning the egg-throwing incident.