LAHORE – Pakistan’s latest internet sensation, Sajid Nawaz landed behind bars after ranting against Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz after Lahore faced waterlogging amid the Monsoon season.
After landing in jail, the man at the center of a viral social media storm has reportedly been sacked from his job at Qarshi Industries.
Unverified reports claimed that Nawaz was working in company’s sales department, but was dismissed shortly after his clip criticizing top government officials created panic. His alleged dismissal from Qarshi Industries sparked heated debate about freedom of expression and the consequences faced by citizens who voice public criticism.
The incident ignited public outcry online, with the hashtag trending across various platforms as calls grew for accountability and his safe return.
As #BoyottQarshi remains in top trends, the company has not issued an official statement, while multiple insiders have confirmed that Nawaz’s employment has been terminated in the aftermath of the controversy.
In the clip, filmed during recent floods in Lahore, he could be seen venting anger over the city’s poor drainage system, blaming the provincial leadership for the chaos caused by heavy rains.
Following his arrest by Punjab police, a separate apology video featuring Nawaz was circulated across social media. In it, he said, “I apologise to the government of Pakistan for my actions.”
However, since his arrest, Nawaz has not returned home, and his whereabouts remain unknown. Family members have expressed growing concern, saying they have not been able to contact him.