Talal Chaudhry apologizes after police raid on National Press Club

Islamabad: Minister of State for Interior, Talal Chaudhry, has issued an unconditional apology over the Islamabad police's assault on journalists at the National Press Club.

Speaking to journalists at the National Press Club, Talal Chaudhry said, “As soon as I learned about the incident, I strongly condemned it and came here immediately. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi sent me without delay.”

He expressed regret over the incident, saying, “I apologize to the journalists for this unfortunate event, which happened unexpectedly.”

Talal Chaudhry explained that some members of the Kashmir Action Committee were protesting, and a few of them allegedly manhandled police officers. As the police pursued them for arrest, they entered the press club after those protesters who had misbehaved with the SP and SHO.

He added that the Interior Minister has ordered an internal inquiry and emphasized, “We offer an unconditional apology.”

The Minister of State reiterated his condemnation of the incident and said, “On behalf of Islamabad Police and the Ministry of Interior, I apologize once again. I understand you have an internal meeting scheduled, and I hope my presence and our apology will be accepted.”

Addressing the journalists, he said, “Whatever decision you make, we will accept it in full. I apologize to all journalist representatives.”

Talal Chaudhry further stated, “We are advocates of freedom of expression. It is because of you that our voice reaches the people.”

Later, Principal Information Officer (PIO) Mubashir Hassan also arrived at the National Press Club Islamabad.

It is worth noting that Islamabad police had stormed the press club, vandalized the cafeteria, and subjected journalists present at the scene to violence.