Razia Mehsood – first female journalist of South Waziristan

Razia Mehsood is a name of valour, courage and hard work. She is a journalist by profession in those tribal districts which are considered one of the most dangerous areas for journalism in Pakistan. Several journalists have lost their lives in the tribal areas in the line of their duties. It is not easy to do journalistic work in these areas and when you are a woman the troubles increase manifold.

However, the highly educated first female citizen journalist hailing from South Waziristan is determined to counter all the challenges. She was born in an educated family. Her father is an academician and a retired principal of Miranshah College.

Talking to an international media organization, Razia Mehsood said she started journalism to highlight the issues of her area. She said she even received threats from influential people, however she was anticipating that ahead of beginning this venture, therefore she continued despite all odds. She said before starting this occupation she had been working as a caseworker.

“I fully understand and abide by our regional customs. That’s the reason that when I started working along with following traditional norms, acceptance for my work among local people multiplied very soon,” she said adding that her work had made little changes, if not big.

 “Initially, it was a hell tough job. Even my mother-in-law did not allow me. People talked behind my back, nevertheless my husband not only supported me but he also encouraged me for this cause,” she said. She said her mother-in-law started helping and encouraging her when she came to know that her work had reduced issues of some people.

Razia Mehsood, who completed her education after marriage, said her husband Kamran Atlas was also a highly educated person.

She said she had lived a life in displacement after army operation in the region and when she returned she found that her area was deprived of basic facilities. She said it was when she decided to spotlight these issues.

Razia said she also raised voice against absence of teachers at girls schools in Waziristan. She said upon publication of this news she faced huge pressure from those affected of it.