[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text dp_text_size=”size-4″]Renowned Pakistani TV show host and YouTuber, Imran Riaz Khan, who had gone missing for over four months and returned home in September, is now nominated for the Human Rights Award. Imran Riaz, formerly the host of Takrar, faced significant challenges during his disappearance, losing 22 kilograms. He is currently undergoing recovery but is experiencing difficulty in speaking.
Acknowledging his resilience and role as a symbol of dissent in challenging times, the Human Rights Council of Pakistan has chosen Imran for the Human Rights Award (2023), as announced in a social media post.
Read more :Â Imran Riaz Khan Returns In Podcast With His Lawyer
Pakistan has grappled with press freedom challenges, and journalists often face censorship for speaking against those in power. The country, with a population of 240 million, is undergoing political crisis and economic turmoil, marked by periods of relative openness interspersed with restrictions on press freedom.
10 Announcement!
Mr. Imran Riaz Khan@ImranRiazKhan
Anchor Person & Senior JournalistNomination for Human Rights Award (2023).#HRCPakistanAward2023 #HRC_Pakistan pic.twitter.com/Rh8VJbofsu
— Human Rights Council of Pakistan (@HRCPakistan) December 7, 2023
Imran Riaz’s arrest occurred during a nationwide crackdown on supporters of Prime Minister Imran Khan, following alleged attacks on civil and military properties during anti-government protests in May. Known for his bold and candid interviews with controversial figures, Imran has covered major national and international events, including the 9/11 attacks, the War on Terror, the 2006 military coup in Thailand, and the Gaza war.
Apart from his contributions to mainstream media, Imran launched his own YouTube channel, Imran Riaz Khan, in 2020. Within a short span, his channel became one of the most-watched in Pakistan, boasting over 3.32 million subscribers.
Imran Riaz Khan is esteemed for his hard-hitting interview style, engaging with high-profile figures such as former Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, former President Asif Ali Zardari, former Prime Minister Imran Khan, and military officers of the Pakistani Army. His nomination for the Human Rights Award recognizes his commitment to journalism and his resilience in the face of adversity.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]