Writer's Column

Aleeza Arshad emerges from the complicated fabric of journalism as a symbol not just of personal sorrow and familial history, but also of endurance, persistence, and journalistic courage in the face of hardship. Her narrative transcends familial relationships, encapsulating the spirit of journalism as a force for truth and accountability. Aleeza's father, the late Arshad Sharif, was no ordinary journalist. He was a towering figure in the world of investigative reporting, bravely unearthing facts that frequently pitted him against the strong. His unexpected death in 2022 shocked the journalistic world, creating a hole that Aleeza opted to fill, not just as a daughter grieving her father, but also as an ambitious journalist driven to succeed.Aleeza's decision to follow in her father's footsteps into the tough profession of media studies is more than just a career choice; it is a testimonial to the significant influence Arshad Sharif had on her. The journalistic excellence bat...

 Pakistan, where the pen should be mightier than the sword, is at a crossroads as the once-vibrant press faces unprecedented dangers. A rise in physical assaults on journalists, combined with worrisome legislative maneuverings, portrays a troubling picture. Let us now look at the specific difficulties that have put a shadow over the Fourth Estate. The Brave Are Bruised - Physical Assaults on Journalists The 2021 brazen attack on journalist Asad Ali Toor in his own house is not an isolated occurrence, but rather a sign of a larger problem. Unidentified thugs, allegedly linked to security forces, attacked Toor with ferocity, sending shockwaves across the journalistic community. This is not just an attack on people; it is an attack on the entire core of a free press. Government Complicity - A Silent Menace While the perpetrators may be nameless shadows, the participation of the governmental apparatus in silencing dissent is a concerning fact. From financial pressure to social media ha...

 By Nishwa Tasavvar | Interview Report   Link to the full interview report |  Interview Transcript  Link to the research article |  Research Article Within the dynamic field of journalism, certain stories manage to go beyond the news cycle and get ingrained in the public mind. Aleeza Arshad, the daughter of the late investigative journalist Arshad Sharif, provided us with a deep insight into her father's legacy and the ongoing quest for justice about his untimely death. Arshad Sharif: A Legacy Not Just for the News We start the interview by discussing the main points of Arshad Sharif's legacy. Aleeza's memories provide a clear image of a devoted father and a journalist who was devoted to finding the truth. From his early morning literary endeavors to the significant importance of investigative journalism on family life, Arshad Sharif is shown to be a complex individual whose influence beyond the confines of his career. Continuity thru Dedication: Alee...