Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) spokesperson Raoof Hasan was attacked and injured by a group of around four people, apparently transgender persons, in Islamabad on Tuesday. The attack, which took place outside the office of a private channel, has drawn strong condemnation from his party.
In a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter, PTI described the incident as “extremely shameful and deplorable.” The party added, “Central Information Secretary Raoof Hasan was attacked by unknown persons outside the office of a private channel.” PTI has demanded an explanation from the government within 24 hours, with Shibli Faraz stating, “If a government exists, then we need an explanation within 24 hours.”
Footage shared on social media shows Hasan being attacked with a sharp object by a group of apparent transgender persons. The video reveals that the attackers engaged Hasan in a brief conversation before assaulting him. A passerby intervened to disperse the attackers. It’s unclear whether the attackers were genuinely transgender persons or were disguised as such.
In a statement, Hasan, seen with injuries and blood on his face, asked for a doctor as he walked into a building. PTI, in another statement, questioned the safety of other citizens if their spokesperson could be attacked in broad daylight in the federal capital.
Following the incident, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar has condemned the attack and called for a detailed investigation. He assured that the government would ensure justice.
In the Senate, Opposition Leader Shibli Faraz condemned the attack and led a walkout by PTI lawmakers, who also resorted to sloganeering against the government. Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar responded, promising that the incident would be handled according to the law and encouraged PTI leaders to register a case.
Senator Faisal Vawda also condemned the attack during a session of the Upper House of Parliament. Senator Sherry Rehman, presiding over the session, requested a report on the incident from the law minister.
The Islamabad police, in a statement, confirmed that eyewitnesses reported the attack was carried out using a blade. The police are collecting evidence and assured that strict action would be taken against those involved.
