NIC probe police conduct during journalists’ protest

The National Integrity Commission (NIC) has opened an investigation into allegations of excessive force by police during a protest by journalists outside Parliament on the day the Media Control Bill was passed.

Journalists and members of the public gathered outside the building on Tuesday of last week to oppose the extraordinary sitting that approved the bill. Protesters reported that police prevented media coverage and injured participants while dispersing the demonstration.

The NIC confirmed its investigation in a post on X on Tuesday, more than a week after the incident. The commission stated it was acting under Article 37 of the National Integrity Commission Act, which grants authority to investigate law enforcement conduct on its own initiative if it is deemed in the public interest.

Police have said that only minimal force was used to clear the area. However, several journalists who were present alleged that officers used severe force. Two people were arrested during the protest, including journalist Leevan Ali Naseer, who later claimed he was mistreated while in custody.