Journalist says viral images were altered and taken without consent, calling the incident a coordinated harassment campaign
Islamabad: Pakistani journalist and news anchor Gharidah Farooqi has responded to an online trolling campaign after images from her appearance at the Islamabad Peace Talks 2026 went viral, sparking debate over her outfit.
The controversy emerged when a green co-ord set worn at the event drew criticism from some social media users, while others defended her and condemned what they called unnecessary scrutiny and harassment of women over clothing choices.
As the images circulated widely on X (formerly Twitter), discussions intensified, with some users alleging the pictures had been altered and others continuing to debate the appropriateness of the attire.
Farooqi addressed the issue on her official X account, stating that the images were taken without consent from a private angle and later morphed into what she described as a coordinated smear campaign.
She said she has been facing similar targeted harassment since 2011, arguing that such actions not only harm individuals but also contribute to a broader culture of intimidation against women in public life.
Following her statement, supporters including colleagues and journalists expressed solidarity and condemned the trolling, while a section of critics maintained that public figures should adhere to more conservative dress standards in professional settings.
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