Journalist Arfaz Ahmed Daing Announces Fast-Unto-Death From 22 December; Questions Raised on Governance and Press Freedom
Doda / Jammu, 11 December 2025:
In a dramatic and deeply concerning development, journalist Arfaz Ahmed Daing has announced that he will begin a fast-unto-death from 22nd December 2025, alleging government inaction, injustice, and a systematic failure to protect journalists in Jammu & Kashmir.
Daing, a local journalist known for his ground reporting, declared that he has been pushed to the edge due to what he calls “institutional silence” after the demolition of his home, a move he describes as unlawful, selective, and an attack on press freedom.
“Na LG Ko Pata Hai, Na CM Ko — Fir Kis Ko Pata Hai?”
In a strongly worded statement, Daing questioned the absence of accountability, saying:
“Na LG Ko Pata Hai, Na CM Ko… phir is zimedari ka malik kaun hai? Jab ek patrakar ka ghar giraya jaye aur koi sunwai na ho, toh is se badi na-insafi kya ho sakti hai?”
His decision to undertake a fast-unto-death has sparked fresh debate on the condition of journalists in the region and the shrinking space for democratic expression.
Press Freedom Under Threat?
The demolition incident has raised questions about whether dissenting voices and critical reporting are being targeted.
Local journalist bodies have expressed solidarity with Daing, calling the move “harsh, arbitrary, and unacceptable.”
Civil society members also fear that if the concerns of journalists remain unheard, it will set a dangerous precedent for the future of transparency and accountability in Jammu & Kashmir.
Government Response Still Missing
Even after repeated appeals, no concrete response has been issued by the administration.
Observers are questioning whether the higher authorities, including the LG administration and state leadership, were aware of the action or if it was executed at a lower level without oversight.
The silence has led to widespread frustration among locals, who ask:
“If not the LG, and not the CM — then who is responsible for ensuring justice?”
Hunger Strike as the Last Resort
Daing has stated clearly that his hunger strike is not a political stunt but a desperate attempt to seek justice after exhausting all legal and administrative channels.
He maintains that he will continue the fast until his demands for a fair probe and restoration of his rights are acknowledged.
Doctors and rights groups have already expressed concerns about his safety.
Growing Public Support
Support for Daing is rising across Doda, Bhaderwah, and other parts of Jammu & Kashmir, with many viewing his case as symbolic of a larger struggle:
The struggle for press freedom
The struggle for accountability
The struggle against administrative high-handedness
Social media is witnessing a wave of posts demanding justice, transparency, and immediate government intervention.
Is This the Naya Jammu & Kashmir?
Daing’s announcement has triggered a larger debate on whether the promises of the “New J&K” — transparency, fairness, equal rights, and democratic values — are truly being upheld.
With the hunger strike date drawing near, the eyes of the region are now fixed on the administration.
Will the government act before it’s too late?
Kifytullah Syed
ATN NEWS
