The Mumbai Press Club expresses deep concern and outrage over the killing of Pulitzer Prize-winning Indian photojournalist Danish Siddiqui by the Taliban in Afghanistan in 2021. During a recent press conference, Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaki expressed regret over the killing of journalists, including Siddiqui, during their conflict. While this acknowledgment is noted, it remains grossly inadequate.
We demand that the Government of India take serious note of this statement and formally seek an unconditional apology from the Taliban government for the brutal killing of Danish Siddiqui, who was performing his professional duty, courageously covering the war to bring truth to the world. His murder represents not only a grave injustice to his family but also a direct attack on press freedom and the safety of journalists globally.
The Mumbai Press Club also appreciates independent journalist Smita Sharma for fearlessly raising this sensitive and important issue with the Taliban leadership, keeping alive the demand for accountability and justice for Danish Siddiqui.
