TV host and journalist Esshal Adnan has accused senior journalist and talk show host Aftab Iqbal of sexual harassment and removing her from his television program after she rejected his alleged advances. The allegations were made during a recent appearance on the Unfold Pakistan podcast, where Esshal described in detail her experience while working with Iqbal on a show at Express TV.

Esshal said she was hired as a co-host for Aftab Iqbal’s program, with her name and image already featured in promotional teasers and banners. However, she alleged that just three days into her role, Iqbal made unwelcome advances toward her, turning what she described as an exciting career opportunity into discomfort.

According to Esshal, she confronted Iqbal directly, telling him, “I respect you, but this behavior is unacceptable for someone of your seniority.” She claimed that Iqbal reacted angrily to her rejection, allegedly threatening to remove her from the show and block her from appearing on television again.

Esshal said Iqbal followed through on his threat and removed her from the program in front of several witnesses. “There were multiple witnesses present when this happened,” she said.

Following the incident, Esshal reported the matter to the TV channel’s Human Resources department, which led to the owner stepping in. She said the owner acknowledged Iqbal’s influential position but assured her that no retaliatory action would be taken against her.

Despite the experience, Esshal stated that she has since moved on. She added that she has chosen to focus on her work and growth since the incident.