LONDON: Geo News London Bureau Chief Murtaza Ali Shah was assaulted and injured while reporting on a march organised by supporters of the proscribed Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) from Hyde Park to the Pakistan High Commission in London.
Thousands of British-Kashmiris gathered in Hyde Park before marching through central London to express concern over the deteriorating situation in Azad Kashmir. Protesters demanded an end to violence, restoration of basic rights and a return to dialogue.
The march remained overwhelmingly peaceful, with the vast majority of participants conducting themselves in an orderly manner.
However, according to eyewitnesses and videos circulating on social media, Shah came under attack as the march was approaching the Pakistan High Commission.
He was reporting from the scene when at least two men approached him from behind, physically assaulted him and blocked his way.
The individuals were said to be angry over Geo News’ coverage of developments relating to Kashmir. At least three men kicked and punched Shah from behind and in front at the start of the assault.
As Shah was stopped, a large crowd gathered around him, creating a tense situation. Metropolitan Police officers and several protest organisers, including members of the Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) and other participating groups, intervened to prevent the situation from escalating further.
The confrontation lasted for around five minutes, during which a small group led by three or four individuals repeatedly attempted to reach Shah despite police efforts to separate them. Police officers eventually escorted the Geo News journalist away from the crowd and ensured his safe passage.
After the situation had calmed, Shah returned to the Pakistan High Commission to continue reporting on the demonstration. A second confrontation then occurred when the same group again attempted to intimidate him while he was carrying out his journalistic duties.
Witnesses said the incident involved only a handful of individuals and did not reflect the conduct of the overwhelming majority of demonstrators, who had gathered to peacefully highlight the situation in Azad Kashmir.
Protest organisers also attempted to calm tensions and prevent any further violence.
