LAHORE: TV actress and model Momina Iqbal and PML-N MPA Saqib Chadhar appeared before the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) in Lahore on Thursday to record their statements in a high-profile online harassment case that has triggered widespread debate on social media.
According to officials, both Momina Iqbal and Saqib Chadhar spent several hours at the NCCIA Lahore office accompanied by their legal teams. Investigation officers recorded statements from both sides as part of an ongoing inquiry into allegations of online harassment, cyberbullying, and threats.
Momina Iqbal had earlier accused the ruling party lawmaker of subjecting her to prolonged online harassment and issuing death threats. In a social media post tagged to senior PML-N leadership, including Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the actress alleged that attempts were made to suppress her complaints instead of ensuring justice.
The actress claimed that individuals associated with the Punjab government allegedly tried to discourage her from pursuing the matter publicly. Her online appeal quickly went viral, prompting strong reactions across social media platforms and drawing the attention of senior political leadership.
Sources told media outlets that Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz took notice of the issue, leading to a swift response by the NCCIA to expedite investigations into the allegations. Punjab police also provided security to Momina Iqbal following the controversy, a development confirmed by her sister Advocate Rimsha Iqbal.
Speaking to reporters, Rimsha Iqbal stated that threats had also been directed at Momina’s fiancé ahead of her planned marriage next month. She claimed the family had submitted evidence supporting the actress’s allegations to the NCCIA investigation team and expressed hope for a fair inquiry.
On the other hand, Saqib Chadhar denied the harassment allegations. His counsel, Mian Ashfaq, told reporters that the MPA and Momina Iqbal had remained friends since 2020 and were once close to marriage. He claimed that the lawmaker had supported the actress socially, administratively, and financially over the years.
The lawyer argued that the allegations did not align with the nature of the long-standing relationship between the two individuals. He also stated that details regarding the relationship and alleged support would be submitted before investigators.
Saqib Chadhar, an influential politician from Chiniot, joined the PML-N after winning the PP-97 seat in the 2024 general elections. The NCCIA investigation into the online harassment case remains ongoing.
