Iqrar ul Hassan Syed is a well-known Pakistani TV anchor and journalist who built his reputation through the popular investigative show Sar-e-Aam, where he exposed fraudsters and con artists through sting operations. Over the years, he also hosted major television events like Shaan-e-Ramzan and worked with ARY Network for 21 years before leaving. Recently, he stepped away from journalism to enter politics, launching his own political party called Awam Raaj Tehreek.
What Happened at Lahore Airport?
Recently, a video started circulating on social media showing Iqrar ul Hassan in a heated argument with an FIA staff officer at Lahore Airport. According to reports, the officer made a remark that Iqrar would end up failing in politics, just like singer-turned-politician Jawad Ahmed did.
The comment clearly did not sit well with Iqrar. He reportedly lost his temper, began shouting at the officer, and questioned him about his political party. Upon finding out that the officer was a PTI supporter, Iqrar allegedly became even more aggressive. He also accused the officer of not doing his job properly. The entire scene was recorded by a bystander and uploaded online, where it spread rapidly.
Iqrar Breaks His Silence
Initially, Iqrar ul Hassan did not want to publicly address the incident. However, after the video went viral and the story began picking up heavily on social media with what he described as false propaganda, he felt compelled to speak up. He shared his version of events through his YouTube channel.
In his statement, Iqrar clarified that despite the officer’s behaviour toward him, he did not want the man to lose his job. He said he personally contacted a senior FIA official and requested that no disciplinary action be taken against the officer. He also acknowledged that the officer appeared to be a PTI supporter and said that PTI supporters should stand by their man, since the officer’s criticism of Iqrar was politically motivated.
Iqrar admitted that what happened was wrong but maintained that he still chose to protect the officer’s livelihood despite the provocation.
Public Reaction
Even after Iqrar’s explanation, the internet was not entirely convinced. Many users felt that his response still came across as self-justifying. Comments continued to pour in, saying he remained too calm to be a serious politician, that he was using his old journalist habits of filming and exposing people rather than adapting to his new political role.
The Bigger Picture
This incident raises a broader question: Can a journalist make a smooth transition into politics? Iqrar ul Hassan built his entire brand on holding others accountable. Now that he is in the political spotlight himself, every action he takes, especially in public spaces, will be scrutinized.
