Journalist Shakir Mehmood Awan Faces Sedition Case Amid Growing Repression

Shakir Mehmood Awan, a prominent journalist, has spoken out about the increasing repression and harassment he has endured over the past two years. He detailed a series of actions taken against him, including the confiscation of his livelihood, suppression of his voice, and the recent registration of a sedition case against him.
Awan stated, “First, my employment was taken away. Then, my YouTube channel was shut down to silence my voice. One day, I was abducted. What happened during that abduction, if I were to reveal it, I might be abducted again.” He further revealed that a false and fabricated case was registered against him by Punjab College, and his bank accounts, national ID card, SIM cards, and even his name have been blocked. He is now on a no-fly list, unable to travel, work, or even use his identity.
Most recently, a sedition case has been filed against him. He questioned, “Is asking questions considered treason? Is speaking the truth a crime? Has raising voice against injustice become enmity towards the state?” Awan emphasized that this case is not just against him but against all those who refuse to remain silent.
“This is not just my story, it’s how the country treats those who speak freely. History shows that voices can be silenced, but the truth cannot”.
This case underscores the alarming trend of repression against journalists and activists in the country, raising serious concerns about freedom of speech and human rights.