Geo News Reporter: (Special Correspondent/Web Desk) – Murtaza Ali Shah attacked while covering a large public march in central London has sparked concern among journalists and press freedom groups. The Geo News London Bureau Chief was hurt while reporting near the Pakistan High Commission, where thousands had gathered to raise their voices over the situation in Azad Kashmir.
The rally began peacefully in Hyde Park. Supporters of the Joint Awami Action Committee, a group that has been officially banned, called for the gathering. Thousands of British-Kashmiris joined the walk, moving from the park toward the High Commission building.
Most people at the event stayed calm and orderly. They wanted to speak up about rising tension in the region. Their main demands were simple: stop the violence, protect basic rights, and bring back proper dialogue between all sides.
Trouble started only as the crowd neared the High Commission. Witnesses say a small number of men walked up behind Shah and attacked him without warning. Videos shared online later showed the chaotic moment.
Reports suggest the attackers were upset about how Geo News had been covering Kashmir-related news. At least three men were seen striking him from both the front and back as the assault began.
A crowd quickly formed around the scene, making things tense. Thankfully, police and several rally organisers stepped in fast. Members of the Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front, along with other groups present, helped keep the situation from getting worse.
The trouble lasted close to five minutes. During that time, a handful of individuals kept trying to reach Shah again, even as officers worked to keep them apart. Eventually, police walked him safely away from the crowd.
Once things settled, Shah went back to the High Commission to keep doing his job. But the same small group tried to intimidate him a second time while he continued reporting.
People who watched the events unfold were quick to point out that this was the work of just a few individuals. It did not reflect how the vast majority of demonstrators behaved. Most attendees were simply there to highlight what’s happening in Azad Kashmir, peacefully and respectfully.
Organisers of the march also stepped forward to calm nerves. They worked alongside police to make sure things didn’t spiral further out of control.
This incident has once again put a spotlight on the risks journalists face while covering public demonstrations, even ones that remain largely peaceful. Press freedom advocates often stress that reporters should be able to do their jobs without fear of harm, no matter how heated a topic may be.
As of now, no arrests have been confirmed in connection with the assault. Authorities are expected to review video evidence gathered from the scene.
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