Journalist Zubaria Jan has spoken out about her ordeal with workplace harassment, alleging that Salman Masood, an editor of a leading English daily, harassed her at work.
She summarized everything in a blog post, that has since been shared generously on social media.
In her post, she narrates that what started out as praise for her work soon turned into her being called into her boss’ office, leaving her wondering about his character. She alleges that Masood would often text her to ask about the gossip in the office, turning their conversations into a tabloid affair.
Whatsapp texts were about anything except their work.
Soon enough he contacted her, and many others, using the infamous “Saroor Ijaz” twitter account.
Saroor Ijaz was known to be a liberal basher and misogynist who openly harassed what he considered to be “impressionable pretty” ladies.
Zubaria’s claim is that they are both the same person, based on calls being made from the same number. The typing style and terms of endearment are also the same from both.
His persona carried into his professional life, Salman Masood didn’t spare any of his employees. He made them feel uneasy about their work environment and pitted them against each other for his own entertainment.
Salman Masood denies all the allegations
People are supporting and applauding Zubaria for speaking out.
The fake Twitter account, Saroor Ijaz, that was used to harass her has become a topic of conversation also
What is Saroor Ijaz story?
— Fatima Hassan (@fatimahacan) January 10, 2017
Some are sharing their personal experiences with the fake Saroor Ijaz account
Salman Masood AKA Saroor Ijaz story isn't new or surprise to me,he did the same with another friend a year ago but she's afraid to speak up.
— Osama. (@ashaqeens) January 8, 2017
Some people are coming to the realization that fake accounts usually have twisted folks behind them
The saroor ijaz episode is another confirmation for me that many Twitter celebrities are actually quite sick people.
— Jamaluddin (@JamalNeutron) January 8, 2017
And this guy’s just sad he missed out on making that account
In this whole Saroor Ijaz scenario. I am just glad that there is one fake account whose blame did not fall upon me. It's a success
— Farhan Khan Virk (@FarhanVirkPTI) January 9, 2017
While there is no conclusion to this case, it does raise important questions for our society.
Where do we stand with work harassment? Countless cases of inappropriate behavior in the workplace take place in Pakistan, many have to stay silent for their safety. Whatever your personal opinion on this particular incident, Zubaria Jan has started the conversation, let’s not kill it.
Cover image via: dawn.com