A Pakistani cricket journalist has alleged that his brother was abducted from Lahore shortly after he was banned from covering cricket affairs by Mohsin Naqvi, sparking fresh concerns over press freedom and intimidation in the country.

The journalist, who had reportedly been critical of the Pakistan Cricket Board’s functioning and leadership, claimed that unidentified individuals picked up his brother in what he described as a targeted act of harassment. He has publicly appealed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for intervention, urging authorities to ensure his brother’s safe recovery.

The incident has intensified debate over the shrinking space for dissent in Pakistan, particularly for journalists who question powerful institutions. Critics argue that the alleged abduction reflects a broader pattern where individuals linked to outspoken voices face pressure or retaliation. According to the journalist’s account, his professional ban came after he raised concerns and criticism related to cricket administration. Soon after, the situation escalated into a personal crisis, with his family becoming directly affected.

No official confirmation has been provided by authorities regarding the alleged kidnapping, and there has been no immediate response from law enforcement agencies. However, the claims have triggered alarm among media circles and rights observers. Analysts say the episode underscores the blurred lines between sports administration and political influence in Pakistan, where even cricket traditionally a unifying national passion has increasingly become entangled with power structures.

The Pakistan Cricket Board has not publicly addressed the allegations linked to its leadership, leaving questions unanswered about the circumstances surrounding the journalist’s ban and the subsequent claims. Observers warn that such incidents, if left unchecked, could further erode confidence in institutions and deepen concerns over safety and freedom for journalists in Pakistan. The case has once again highlighted the risks faced by media professionals in the country, where criticism of influential figures can carry serious personal consequences. 

Disclaimer : This image is taken from The Associated Press.