Domestic Violence
Karachi police have registered a case against anchorperson Ashfaq Ishaq over allegations of “severely beating his wife.” The case was filed based on a complaint by Nomaika Tahir Mehmood, Ishaq’s spouse, who accused him of assaulting her due to doubts about her character. The North Nazimabad Station House Officer (SHO), Farooq Ahmed Sanjrani, mentioned that the suspect fled after the registration of the First Information Report (FIR), and efforts were underway to apprehend him.
Police surgeon Dr. Summaiya Syed confirmed that Nomaika was initially examined on January 24 at Abbasi Shaheed Hospital’s medico-legal section. Today, she was re-examined at Civil Hospital Karachi at her request, and injuries were duly noted. Dr. Summaiya stated that the victim’s injuries had not been disclosed until reports and expert opinions were obtained, and she had been advised relevant investigations.
In response to the allegations, ARY News announced the suspension of Ashfaq Ishaq with immediate effect until the legal process determines the matter. The news outlet emphasized its “zero tolerance policy” on violence or threats of violence, both in the workplace and elsewhere.
According to the FIR, Nomaika stated that her husband accused her of “baseless allegations” regarding her whereabouts and subjected her to severe beating, resulting in injuries to her left eye. The complaint detailed instances of dragging by her hair, slamming her head into a wall, and visible torture marks on her body. The victim also alleged that her husband forcibly took away their son, locked her in a room, threatened her, attempted to strangle her, and gave death threats.
The FIR includes charges under sections 324 (attempt to murder), 506 (criminal intimidation), 337-A (i) (causing hurt to any person), and 337-F (i) (causing harm with the intention of causing hurt) of the Pakistan Penal Code. The case underscores the serious nature of domestic violence allegations involving a prominent media figure, leading to legal consequences and professional repercussions.
