Journalist Asad Ali Toor was interrogated by Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) officials for nearly eight hours in connection with allegations of a “malicious campaign” against the superior judiciary following the Supreme Court’s decision to remove PTI’s ‘bat’ symbol before elections. Toor’s lawyer Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir confirmed on social media that Toor and his legal team were detained at the FIA cyber crime wing headquarters until 7pm, having arrived at 10:50am.
Toor expressed gratitude to his legal team and supporters for their help and solidarity during the incident, describing it as a “tough time.” According to Mazari, Toor was being investigated without any list of specific allegations provided, and he was not allowed access to his legal counsel during the interrogation. Mazari further alleged that Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa was aware of the situation and implied his involvement in it.
Toor had voluntarily responded to the FIA’s summon via social media and had requested a list of allegations to prepare a written response. Mazari criticized the lack of transparency in the investigation and expressed concern over the abuse of power against journalists who speak truthfully and criticize decisions. Digital rights activist Usama Khilji corroborated Mazari’s account, stating that Toor was issued a follow-up notice regarding the alleged vilification campaign against the judiciary.
Despite previous assurances from the Attorney General that no action would be taken before the general election, Toor was interrogated without his legal team present. Khilji criticized the interrogation as a deliberate harassment of journalists and a violation of freedom of the press. The government and legal community denounced the campaign against CJP Isa based on false information and incitement of violence, with the Information Minister warning of potential action against social media platforms if they fail to regulate such activities.