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Draft:Anum Sheikh

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Anum Sheikh

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    • Anum Sheikh** is a Pakistani journalist, television host, and social media personality. Known for her bold reporting on political and social issues, Sheikh became an influential figure in Pakistan's media landscape. Her career took a dramatic turn when she was arrested in 2023 during the political unrest following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, and later went into exile in Dubai. Sheikh is also recognized for her advocacy on behalf of imprisoned journalists and her vocal opposition to government censorship.

Early Life and Career

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Anum Sheikh began her career in journalism with a focus on political reporting and social issues. Over time, she gained recognition for her fearless approach to covering controversial topics, such as government policies, corruption, and societal injustices. Sheikh worked at several prominent Pakistani television networks where she reported on current affairs, interviews, and investigative stories. She also developed a strong presence on social media, particularly on YouTube, where she became known for her political analysis and commentary.

Her direct style of journalism earned her both praise and criticism, as her reporting often challenged established narratives in Pakistan's media landscape.

Career at TV Channels

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Sheikh worked with a variety of leading television channels, where she was responsible for producing news segments, conducting interviews, and analyzing political developments. Her ability to address complex issues in an accessible manner made her a popular figure in the media industry. Despite facing political pressure, Sheikh continued to uphold her journalistic values, covering stories that others often avoided.

Her work at TV networks played a significant role in raising public awareness about pressing political and social issues in Pakistan.

Arrest and 3MPO Detention

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On May 9, 2023, following the arrest of Imran Khan, widespread protests erupted across Pakistan, led by his political party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). Anum Sheikh, who had been a vocal critic of the government, was arrested under the **Maintenance of Public Order (3MPO)** ordinance, along with several other prominent journalists and political figures. The arrest was linked to her participation in protests and her role in covering the political turmoil.

Sheikh was detained for three days at **Adiala Jail**, where she reported that conditions were relatively safe, but the emotional toll of imprisonment was significant. Her arrest, along with that of other journalists, sparked widespread condemnation from media organizations, including **Women in Journalism (WIJ)** and the **Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF)**, which raised concerns over the increasing attacks on press freedom in Pakistan. [Aaj News](https://english.aaj.tv/news/30322729/woman-journalist-who-was-arrested-with-pti-protesters-claims-adiala-prison-is-safe).

Exile to Dubai

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Following her arrest and the growing crackdown on journalists, Anum Sheikh left Pakistan and went into exile in Dubai. Sheikh cited concerns for her safety in Pakistan, particularly after facing threats and harassment for her coverage of sensitive political events. While in exile, Sheikh continued her journalistic work, using her social media platforms to raise awareness about the challenges faced by journalists in Pakistan, including government censorship and the targeting of media professionals.

Her exile is part of a broader pattern of journalists fleeing Pakistan due to rising threats and violence against the press. Sheikh's case, along with those of other high-profile journalists such as **Imran Riaz Khan**, was widely discussed by international human rights organizations, including **Pakistan Impunity Watch** and the **Pakistan Safety Coalition**, which have consistently called for the protection of media workers. [Pakistan Safety Coalition](https://pakistansafetycoalition.org/ppf-alarmed-by-arrests-raids-and-harassment-of-media-professionals-urge-govt-to-provide-answers-instead-of-deflecting-away-from-the-issue/).

Petition for Justice

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In response to the detention and targeting of journalists, a **Change.org** petition was launched calling for justice for Anum Sheikh and other journalists, including Imran Riaz Khan, who had been abducted and unlawfully detained. The petition demanded the immediate release of the journalists and an end to the government's crackdown on the media.

Advocacy for Press Freedom

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Throughout her career, Anum Sheikh has been an outspoken advocate for press freedom and the protection of journalists in Pakistan. She has used her platforms to criticize the growing authoritarianism in the country and to highlight the challenges faced by media professionals, especially those critical of the government. Sheikh's arrest and subsequent exile brought global attention to the dangerous environment for journalists in Pakistan.

She remains a symbol of resistance against media suppression and continues to be active in advocating for the rights of journalists who face political persecution.

References

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