On March 09, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) issued notices to the government, seeking a formal response within two weeks regarding the establishment of the 9th Wage Board Award for newspaper employees. Chief Justice Sarfaraz Dogar presided over the hearing on the petitions filed by the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), the Rawalpindi-Islamabad Union of Journalists (RIUJ), and the Islamabad High Court Journalists Association (IHCJA).

The court issued notices to and directed the Secretaries of the Information and Broadcasting and the Cabinet Division to submit their responses. The petitioner’s lawyer, Shahid Khokhar, argued the necessity for the federal government to promptly constitute the new wage board. He highlighted the legal obligation under Section 9 of the Newspaper Employees (Conditions of Service) Act, 1973.

These petitions were initiated by PFUJ President Afzal Butt, RIUJ President Asif Bashir Chaudhry, and IHCJA President Asadullah Malik, who are actively seeking judicial intervention to ensure the timely formation of the 9th Wage Board to address the economic difficulties faced by journalists.

The Executive Committee of the All-Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS) held a meeting in Karachi on March 16, where it adopted the annual report for 2025-26 and the financial accounts for 2025. The committee also praised the secretariat’s efforts in recovering both current and longstanding dues.

The meeting, presided over by APNS President, Senator Sarmad Ali, and attended by Vice President Shahab Zuberi and Secretary General Muhammad Athar Kazi, focused on the operational achievements of the past year and discussed issues concerning the state of print media and freedom of the press in Pakistan.

Senator Sarmad Ali, President, Shahab Zuberi, Vice President, Muhammad Athar Kazi, Secretary General, Bilal Farooqui (Aghaz), Ms. Fauzia Shaheen (Dastak) Najamuddin Sheikh (Deyanat), Muhammad Younus Mehar (Halchal), Kazi Asad Abid (Ibrat), Syed Akbar Tahir (Jasarat), Javed Mehr Shamsi (Kaleem), Aamir Malik (Mashriq Quetta), Tahir Qureshi (Naey Ufaq) Ms. Zahida Abbasi (Nau Sijj), Mubashir Mir (Pakistan),Humayun Gulzar (Sayadat) attended the meeting.

While Mohsin Bilal, Joint Secretary, Naveed Kashif, Finance Secretary, Mohsin Seyal (Aftab), Waseem Ahmed (Awam Quetta), Ansar Mahmood Bhatti (Centre Line), Naveed Chaudhry (City 42), Bilal Mahmood (Nawa-i-Waqt), Adnan Faisal (Jiddat), Imtinan Shahid (Khabrain), S.M. Munir Jilani (Paigham), Faisal Zahid Malik (Pakistan Observer), Muhammad Awais Khushnood (Sahafat), Irfan Athar (Tijarat) attended the meeting via Zoom.

The APNS has announced that the Annual General Council Meeting is scheduled to take place on March 31 in Karachi.

The CPNE praised KP Chief Minister Sohail Khan Afridi and his cabinet for resolving the issue. The approval of the funds was seen as a significant support measure to newspapers in the province.

Previously, the CPNE had taken legal action by filing a writ petition in the Peshawar High Court, demanding that the provincial government clear all back payments. The court responded by issuing directives to ensure the clearance of these dues.

In their official statement, the CPNE also highlighted the broader significance of this decision. They view it as a recognition of the integral role that newspapers play in society and urged other provincial governments to adopt similar measures. The council emphasized the need for ongoing cooperation between the media and public sector institutions. CPNE reiterated its commitment to working alongside government stakeholders to tackle issues.

On February 24, Peshawar High Court (PHC) Chief Justice SM Atique Shah expressed displeasure after no representative from the Finance Department appeared in court during a hearing on a contempt of court petition regarding the non-payment of approximately Rs1.8 billion owed to newspapers for government advertisements. The petition was lodged by the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa chapter of the Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE),  by its chairman Tahir Farooq through advocates Shahid Naseem Chamkani and Ahsan Masood.

The legal action stems from a writ petition filed in 2023 that sought settlement of dues accrued from government advertisements. During subsequent proceedings, the authorities had acknowledged the debt and requested time for reconciliation. Following this, on May 22, 2024, the PHC ordered the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government to clear the dues and disposed of the petition.

However, the payments remain outstanding. The failure to comply led to the initiation of contempt proceedings against the relevant officials. During the hearing on February 24, the court was informed that recent meetings led the Finance Department to decide on releasing Rs800 million to the newspapers within the current financial year.

Justice Shah voiced dissatisfaction over the non-compliance and the absence of the finance secterary at the hearing. He summoned the secretary again and adjourned the hearing to a later date, issuing fresh notices to the department.

The assurance was given during a special meeting convened to address the pending payments. The CPNE delegation included former Secretary General Ijazul Haq, Secretary General Ghulam Nabi Chandio, and Chairman of CPNE’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chapter, Tahir Farooq.

Detailing the payment plan, Aslam explained that an agreement had been reached regarding Rs 798 million worth of verified accounts from provincial departments. He confirmed that 50% of this amount would be disbursed in the first week of March. The process for reconciling the remaining dues is currently underway, with full payment expected between July and September in the new financial year.

The resolution of this issue is critical as CPNE had previously filed a writ petition in the Peshawar High Court seeking to recover advertisement dues that had been pending for several years.  The case has been ongoing for the past two years. Due to the delays in payment, the High Court had issued a contempt notice against the Secretary of Finance. The next hearing is set for February 23 at the Peshawar High Court.

Aslam emphasised the government’s responsibility to pay the newspapers what they are due, asserting there would be no further delays in settling these accounts. This assurance aims to address the financial strain faced by the newspapers due to the non-payment of dues and to prevent any further legal complications.

On January 21, the Peshawar High Court (PHC) issued a contempt of court notice to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa finance secretary, seeking an explanation over the continued non-payment of outstanding government advertisement dues to newspapers, despite assurances previously given to the court.

The notice was issued by a single-member bench of Justice Ijaz Anwar while hearing a contempt petition filed by the Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chapter. The petition was filed through CPNE KP Chairman Tahir Farooq, and was represented by advocates Shahid Naseem Chamkani, Mohammad Ihsan Mehsud, and Ahsan Masood.

The court observed that the case involved a substantial amount payable to the petitioner organisation and, therefore, directed the finance secretary to submit an explanation. The matter was adjourned to a later date for further proceedings.

According to the petition, CPNE approached the Peshawar High Court in 2023 by filing a writ petition seeking clearance of approximately Rs1.8 billion in outstanding dues owed to newspapers for government advertisements, accumulated over several decades. During the hearing of the writ petition, the relevant authorities acknowledged the outstanding arrears.

A two-member bench comprising Justice Sahibzada Asadullah and Justice Wiqar Ahmad disposed of the writ petition on May 22, 2024. At that time, the then secretary of information, Syed Abdul Jabbar Khan, and the additional secretary, Abdul Haleem Khan, informed the court that the reconciliation process was underway and that the outstanding amounts would be calculated. The court allowed time for reconciliation and issued directions for payment of the arrears to newspapers.

Despite the passage of significant time following the court’s order, the dues were not cleared. As a result, CPNE filed the present contempt petition. During the proceedings, a deputy director (litigation) of the Information Department appeared before the court on November 10, 2025, and sought additional time to resolve the matter.

Counsel for the petitioner informed the court that the issue remained unresolved despite repeated assurances given to the court. It was further stated that the provincial government had been delaying the release of the required funds to the Information Department, which was responsible for making onward payments to the member newspapers of CPNE.

The bench was also informed that the reconciliation of dues was nearly complete and that a request for Rs800 million had been submitted to the Finance Department. However, the Finance Department had not yet released the requested amount.

The half-page advertisement, issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, carried the headline: “Have you ever wondered what war looks like today?” It stated, “Today, war is no longer fought on the battlefield. It is fought in our minds. The enemy’s bullets are no longer gunpowder… it’s information.” The ad warned citizens of an “enemy hiding behind the veil of technology and the internet,” and claimed that the enemy “sometimes disguised as a reporter, sometimes as an NGO worker or freelancer, extracts sensitive information that brings unrest, fear, and chaos to our streets.”

The message further advised citizens: “Never share any sensitive information with a stranger,” and urged the public to report any suspicious calls or messages.

In a joint statement, HRCP, the Women’s Action Forum (Lahore), Shirkat Gah–Women’s Resource Centre, South Asia Partnership–Pakistan, Simorgh, and the Centre for Legal Aid, Assistance and Settlement (CLAAS) said framing civil society actors and independent media as part of an information war “is deeply irresponsible and undermines the very freedoms that sustain a democratic society.”

The statement highlighted that independent journalists and NGOs in Pakistan already operate under restrictive conditions marked by frequent harassment, strict reporting requirements, and suspicion created by vague security narratives. “Portraying their work as a threat to national security further endangers individuals committed to protecting rights and informing the public,” it said, adding that such portrayals risk legitimizing surveillance, intimidation, and arbitrary targeting.

The rights groups further warned that urging citizens to report “suspicious” reporters or NGO workers without legal safeguards could lead to harassment and censorship. They called on the government to withdraw this campaign immediately, refrain from conflating legitimate civil society work with hostile activity, and prioritize an enabling environment where journalists and human rights organizations can function safely and independently.

Media watchdog Freedom Network also condemned the advertisement, describing it as “deeply troubling.” “Whoever wrote, designed and approved this ad has endangered the lives of journalists and civil society workers by depicting them as threats to national security. At a time when the media is already under intense pressure, this narrative is reckless and dangerous,” it said in a statement.

The organisation warned that the campaign fuels hostility against individuals who deliver reliable information to the public. “It stigmatizes the journalism community and undermines the critical role of independent media in Pakistan. Such messaging is a direct attack on press freedom, which is a cornerstone of democracy and a fundamental right enshrined in Article 19 of the Constitution,” the statement added.

The advertisement appeared amid growing government pressure on social media platforms and increased crackdowns on dissent following the imprisonment of an opposition leader, with rights organisations warning that the campaign could further shrink civic space in Pakistan.

On September 25, President Asif Ali Zardari, in his message on National Newspaper Readership Day, emphasized the vital role newspapers play in strengthening democracy and fostering an informed society. He urged the youth to cultivate a habit of reading newspapers and called on educational institutions to actively promote readership among students, stressing that access to credible information is the foundation of responsible citizenship.

The President praised the All-Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS) for its ongoing efforts to encourage newspaper reading and acknowledged the historical contribution of the press in shaping national discourse. He highlighted how newspapers have long played a key role in promoting accountability, exposing injustice, and informing public opinion—essential components of a healthy democracy.

President Zardari also voiced concern over the rising spread of disinformation through social media platforms. He reaffirmed that newspapers remain a trusted and verified source of information and should be sustained by public confidence rather than government or commercial dependency. He concluded by urging the print media to uphold high ethical standards and encouraged the public to support responsible journalism.

Meanwhile, Punjab’s Minister for Information and Culture, Azma Bokhari, reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to addressing the challenges facing the print media industry. During a meeting with APNS representatives, she shared key initiatives being undertaken under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to support journalists and safeguard the future of the print media in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

The APNS delegation welcomed the government’s proactive approach and expressed gratitude for its continued support. Members praised Bokhari’s efforts, noting that her responsiveness to industry concerns had helped restore confidence among media stakeholders. They reaffirmed their commitment to working with the government to promote press freedom and sustainability.

Minister Bokhari announced her intention to file a defamation lawsuit against anchors Mubasher Lucman and Naeem Hanif, accusing them of attributing false statements to her. She condemned what she described as a serious breach of journalistic ethics and urged media organizations to take a firm stand against disinformation and character assassination within the profession.

On July 25, the All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS) Punjab Recovery Committee held a meeting in Lahore to discuss outstanding payments to the print media, with Director General Public Relations (DGPR) Punjab, Ghulam Sagheer Shahid, attending as a key participant. The session was chaired by Mohsin Mumtaz.

DGPR Ghulam Sagheer Shahid stated that the Punjab government, under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Information Minister Azma Bukhari, is committed to public engagement through consistent awareness campaigns. “Awareness campaigns will continue consistently for uplifting the people of Punjab,” he noted during the session.

Opening the meeting, Chairman Mohsin Mumtaz lauded the Punjab government’s initiatives and acknowledged the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and Minister Azma Bukhari. He emphasized the importance of settling financial matters with media outlets.

Finance Secretary APNS, Naveed Kashif, shared that notable progress had been made in the last ten months, with significant payments disbursed by DGPR Punjab. He described these payments as a source of encouragement for the print media industry.

Khabrain’s Chief Editor, Imtinan Shahid, commended the efforts of the Information Minister and DGPR, saying that the DGPR Punjab has successfully projected a strong and dynamic image of the Punjab government across all provinces.

Usman Shami, Editor of Daily Pakistan, acknowledged the government’s role in media support and emphasized the need for continued efforts. “There is no doubt the Punjab government has taken a leading role in development, and Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz rightfully deserves commendation,” he said. “Timely payments to the print media will breathe new life into the fading spirit of journalism.”

Participants in the meeting included Munir Gilani (Pegham), Noorullah (Jang), Imran Raza (Dawn), and Imran Athar (Jurat). Observers present were Bilal Mehmood (Nawa-i-Waqt), Furqan Hashmi (Khabrain), and Muhammad Farooq (Pakistan).

Meanwhile, Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi congratulated the newly elected president Ashraf Dar and office bearers of the All Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Newspapers Society. In an official message, he affirmed the role of journalists in a democratic society.

The statement emphasized that a free and responsible press is the cornerstone of democratic societies, and the role of the journalist community in this regard is highly commendable. Governor Kundi expressed confidence in the new cabinet’s ability to address media challenges and uphold journalistic standards.

He added that the Pakistan Peoples Party has consistently stood for media freedom and the rights of working journalists and expressed hope that the new leadership would advance the welfare of media workers.

On July 9, Information and Broadcasting Minister Attaullah Tarar said the federal government is committed to supporting the print media and will soon implement Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s assurance to revise government advertisement rates.

Speaking to members of the All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS) Executive Committee at a dinner hosted by the Ministry of Information, the Minister said the move aims to promote a vibrant and responsible print media and curb the spread of disinformation from fake platforms.

He stated that payment issues facing the newspaper industry were being actively addressed. The federal government has paid over Rs.6 billion to the media towards their dues, he said, adding that the share of print media in both total payments and advertisement volume would be increased.

He assured that the Ministry was putting in its best efforts to ensure that all dues are cleared regularly, with no pending liabilities. A committee comprising all stakeholders has also been constituted to identify and eliminate dummy publications. “This initiative will strengthen the economies of genuine publications,” he added. The Minister also encouraged newspapers to innovate in order to meet the challenges facing the print industry.

Earlier, APNS President Senator Sarmad Ali, along with members of the Executive Committee, briefed the Minister on various issues. They recalled that the Prime Minister had announced an increase in advertisement rates in August 2023, which has yet to be implemented despite repeated assurances.

Committee members also highlighted that while a significant payment was released to media houses recently, less than 20 percent was allocated to newspapers, with the majority going to electronic media. They requested a fair share of the advertising budget for print publications. The members also reiterated their demand that regional Press Information Department (PID) offices be authorized to recommend media outlets from their respective areas.

The dinner was attended by Secretary Information Ms. Ambreen Jan, Principal Information Officer Mubashar Hasan, and other senior officials of the Ministry. APNS was represented by Secretary General Muhammad Athar Kazi, Finance Secretary Navèed Kashif, and other Executive Committee members.

Earlier in the day, the Executive Committee of APNS held its meeting in Islamabad, chaired by its President, Senator Sarmad Ali.

Announcing the committee’s decisions, Secretary General Mohammad Athar Kazi said that members urged both federal and provincial governments to expedite long-pending payments to ease the financial strain on the print media industry.

The Committee expressed concern over the non-payment of dues by DGPR from previous years. It was decided that a delegation, led by the APNS President, would meet the Secretary Information Sindh to press for the release of long-overdue non-budgeted payments.

The Executive Committee also approved the report of the Advertising Committee and granted provisional accreditation to M/s Brand Spectrum (Pvt.) Ltd., Lahore.

Those present at the meeting included Senator Sarmad Ali, Mohammad Athar Kazi, Naveed Kashif, Mohsin Bilal, Mohsin Seyal (Aftab), Bilal Farooqi (Aghaz), Ansar Mahmood Bhatti (Monthly Centre Line), Fauzia Shaheen (M/Dastak), Najamuddin Sheikh (D/Deyanat), Javed Mehr Shamsi (D/Kaleem), Imtinan Shahid (D/Khabrain), Bilal Mahamood (Nawa-e-Waqt), Rasakh Munir (D/Mashriq Peshawar), Aamir Malik (D/Mashriq Quetta), S.M. Munir Jilani (D/Paigham), Usman Mujib Shami (D/Pakistan), Faisal Zahid Malik (D/Pakistan Observer), Khushnood Ali Khan (D/Sahafat), Humayun Gulzar (D/Sayadat), Imran Ather (D/Tijarat), and Syed Haroon Shah (D/Wahdat).

On May 6, the Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE) constituted its Free Media Committee for the year 2025-26. According to a statement issued by the CPNE, Irshad Arif has been appointed as chairman of the committee, and Ejaz Haider of Daily Express as deputy chairman.

The Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE), the representative body of newspaper editors from across the country, has elected its new office bearers for the 2025-26 term. Kazim Khan of Daily Duniya has been elected as the President of CPNE, while Ghulam Nabi Chandio of Daily Pak has assumed the role of Secretary General.

Other elected office bearers include Ayaz Khan as Senior Vice President, Tanveer Shaukat as Deputy Secretary General, Hamid Hussain Abidi as Finance Secretary, and Zia Tanoli as Information Secretary. The newly elected Vice Presidents are Qazi Asad Abid, Adnan Zafar, Yahya Khan Sadozai, Mian Hassan Ahmed, and Munir Ahmed Baloch. Tahir Farooq, Munazza Seham, Rafay Niazi, Arif Baloch, and Waqas Tariq Farooq have been elected as Joint Secretaries.

Members elected to the CPNE Standing Committee include Dr Jabbar Khattak, Ikram Sehgal, Akmal Chohan, Babar Nizami, Maqsood Yousufi, Sher Muhammad Khawer, Sardar Muhammad Siraj, Mudassar Iqbal, Muhammad Owais Razi, Shehzad Amin, Irfan Athar, Shakeel Ahmed Turabi, Tazeen Akhtar, Anwar Sajdi, Mumtaz Ahmed Sadiq, Faqir Munthar Mangrio, Abdul Rahman Mangrio, Dr Zubair Mehmood, Masood Khan, Fazal Haq, Zulfiqar Ahmed Rahat, Ali Ahmed Dhillon, Aamir Mehmood, Syed Intizar Hussain Zanjani, Aslam Mian, Hamza Ali Afghan, Ayaz Memon, Mudassar Alam, and Mehmood Alam Khalid.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif extended their congratulations to the newly elected office bearers of the Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE). In separate messages, they conveyed best wishes and expressed confidence that the new leadership would uphold journalistic values, combat misinformation, and continue promoting high professional standards in the media.

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah congratulated the newly elected office bearers of the CPNE. He praised CPNE’s role in promoting press freedom. Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif also conveyed her best wishes to the new leadership. She expressed hope that the CPNE will continue to advance independent and responsible journalism in the country.

The interruption has impacted residents including students, businesses, and professionals who depend on mobile connectivity. The disruption comes amid ongoing protests led by Balochistan National Party (BNP) leader Akhtar Mengal against the arrest of Mahrang Baloch. According to Samaa TV, the government has attributed the suspensions to security threats. 

Services were initially suspended on April 2 and were restored on April 5.

Balochistan government spokesperson Shahid Rashid confirmed the restoration of services after the earlier suspension, adding that mobile and internet services had been suspended due to security concerns.

A criminal complaint (First Information Report) was registered against journalist Abdul Khalif, known as A.K. Chauhan, under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca) in Khairpur district of Sindh province for publishing a news story accusing the Khairpur Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) of corruption and sharing the story on social media.

The FIR was registered on behalf of the state by Station House Officer (SHO) Iqbal Noon at the Khairpur A Section police station. The FIR alleged that A.K. Chauhan, in a report for a local Urdu newspaper, on the basis of “unsubstantiated allegations” claimed that Khairpur SSP Toheed Rehman and the district’s police system were compromised. The report further accused the journalist of using abusive language against officers on social media and engaging in character assassination.

The FIR, filed under sections 506, 500, and 504 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) along with section 20 of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, stated that three police officers—Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Maqsood Ahmed Abro, and Head Constables Abdul Rehman Narejo and Rahim Dino Siyal—were on patrol when they noticed Chauhan’s posts on Facebook. The FIR states that Chauhan’s posts used “unethical, insulting, and accusatory” language against the police, issued threats and attempted to cause chaos in the public.

SSP Toheed Rehman Memon, speaking to Dawn, denied the accusations made by the journalist, calling them baseless. He challenged A.K. Chauhan to present any evidence supporting his claims. As per the SSP, the reporter had started a defamation campaign against him and now his colleagues and superiors were asking him about the allegations.

Chauhan has stood by the story he had published in Hamara Samaj stating that he filed it through confirmed sources.

On March 20, the Lahore High Court (LHC) gave the federal government a “last chance” to explain the “entire situation” — legal grounds and mechanism behind the ongoing ban on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. The platform has remained inaccessible in Pakistan since February 17, 2024.

A three-member bench headed by Chief Justice Aalia Neelum resumed hearing petitions filed by journalist Shakir Mahmood and others challenging the suspension of X. The federal government, the Ministry of Law, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, and others were made parties in the petitions.

During the hearing, Chief Justice Neelum questioned the federal government’s approach: “How was the closure of X carried out? The federal government is being given the last chance [to explain]. The government should respond in court. After this, the head of the cabinet will be summoned.”

PTA Chairman Major General (retd) Hafeezur Rehman appeared before the court and submitted a written response.

Deputy Attorney General Asad Bajwa informed the bench that the interior ministry lacked a mechanism to determine which social media platforms were being accessed through Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). Justice Neelum questioned how the ministry could block X but not trace its use.

Bajwa stated that the PTA had formed a committee to investigate VPN usage. The court rejected this, with Chief Justice Neelum terming it a way to “distract the court.”

Bajwa said that the social media platform [X] authorities had been written a letter. The court inquired whether there was any agreement between the government and X. Upon being told there was none, Justice Neelum questioned: “Why would X respond to you if there is no agreement?”.

Justice Ali Zia Bajwa asked if PTA’s official account on X was still active. When the PTA chairman confirmed it was, the judge asked how the authority could use the platform while banning it. The PTA chairman stated that users in Pakistan were accessing X via VPNs and initially admitted that the PTA was also using a VPN. However, he later tried to retract the statement.

Justice Farooq Haider asked whether VPNs could be blocked, to which the PTA chairman responded that it would take time. Justice Neelum questioned the delay, stating that it had been a year with no significant action, and they were still requesting another month. She also asked for data on VPN usage related to X access. Rehman said exact figures were not available, prompting criticism from the judge.

Justice Bajwa observed that the PTA had stated it would restore X if the court ordered it, to which the PTA chairman responded: “Absolutely, if the court orders, we will open X immediately.” Justice Bajwa noted that while content could be blocked “to some extent” under the rules, an entire platform could not be shut down.

Wrapping up the hearing, Chief Justice Neelum said: “Why did the government not fulfill its responsibility? We were disappointed to summon the PTA chairman, he does not know [anything]. We do not have time to waste, why not take contempt of court action for wasting the bench’s time?”

The hearing was adjourned until April 8.

Photo: X Logo

“After it was discovered that some police officials were using their personal social media accounts to express highly offensive views about the state of Pakistan, government departments and law enforcement agencies, divisional police chiefs across Punjab have been directed to strictly monitor it and take strict legal action against those responsible,” read the directive.

It further warned: “In case any police officer was found uploading inappropriate video, post, unlawful content, or any material or comments against police or government departments, the RPO will take strict departmental action against the responsible personnel. No unlawful content against the state, legal and government institutions and law enforcement agencies is allowed to be shared on social media platforms.”

It noted that in a directive in February, SOPs for surveillance of this nature of content had already been circulated.

The provincial Additional IG has sent a letter to Rawalpindi Regional Police Officer (RPO) Babar Sarfraz Alpa, Rawalpindi City Police Officer (CPO) Syed Khalid Hamdani and to RPOs, CPOs, and District Police Officers (DPOs) across Punjab, including Lahore CCPO.

On March 15, at the annual general council meeting, the All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS) elected its executive committee for the 2025-26 term. The newly elected executive committee includes Sarmad Ali as President, Nazafreen Saigol-Lakhani as Senior Vice President, Shahab Zuberi as Vice President, Muhammad Athar Kazi as Secretary General, Mohsin Bilal as Joint Secretary, and Naveed Kashif as Finance Secretary.

In addition, 26 dailies and six periodicals were elected unopposed to the executive committee. Among the dailies are notable publications such as Jasarat, Jiddat, Business Recorder, Dawn, and Jang. Periodicals elected include monthly Dastak, weekly Family, monthly Naey Ufaq,  monthly Naya Rukh,  monthly Centre Line, and fortnightly Ibrat. Zahida Abbasi from Daily Nau Sijj (Karachi) was elected to the woman publisher’s seat.

The elections, attended by 107 members from across the country, were conducted under the leadership of an election commission led by Mumtaz Ahmed Phulpoto, with Syed Irfan Shah and Ali Bin Younus as members.

The meeting strongly condemned the ongoing government ad ban on Daily Dawn, describing it as a “policy of arm-twisting” and an attempt to influence the newspaper’s editorial policies through advertisements. The APNS stressed that advertisements were a right, not a privilege, serving transparency and “people’s right to know.” They called for a fair and transparent distribution of government ads.

The APNS also expressed concern about the financial crisis facing newspapers, urging the government to support the media by increasing government advertisement rates as previously decided. The council called on the Ministry of Information to lift the advertisement stoppage on Daily Sahafat and urged the federal and provincial governments to clear outstanding dues to help the newspaper industry.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the new executive committee. He expressed hope that the new committee would maintain high journalistic standards and continue to uphold journalistic values. Emphasizing the media’s role as the fourth pillar of the state, Prime Minister Sharif encouraged the press to engage in constructive criticism, which he noted as essential for governance improvement.

In separate statements, Acting President Yousaf Raza Gilani, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, and Federal Secretary for Information Ambreen Jan also extended their congratulations, committing to support press freedom and address media industry challenges.

Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari announced a scheme by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif to provide journalists in Punjab with their own homes. Bokhari praised APNS for its longstanding contributions to journalism, particularly in the print media sector. She emphasized that the Punjab government is committed to protecting press freedom.

On March 12, Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) Chief Organiser Aliya Hamza Malik filed a petition in the Lahore High Court (LHC) challenging media advertisements showcasing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.

The petition, submitted through her legal counsel, argued that the premier and the chief minister were “using public funds for personal promotion,” which contradicted a Supreme Court decision. The petition stated that the government should follow the apex court ruling regarding advertisements.

“The utilization of money from the national exchequer on the publicity of personal achievements is illegal and unconstitutional. It also amounts to the violation of the Supreme Court (SC) verdict,” read the petition.

It further asserted that no policy exists regarding advertisements for government projects and stated that the use of state funds for personal publicity was unconstitutional. Additionally, the plea sought the development of a policy for the publication of government ads and sought recovery of public funds allegedly used for personal publicity.

The LHC has already issued notices to the government on two similar petitions regarding a 60-page advertisement supplement featuring the Punjab chief minister on March 7. The petitions, filed by Punjab Assembly Opposition Leader Ahmad Khan Bhachar and activist Ashba Kamran, challenge the alleged use of public funds for personal publicity of Maryam Nawaz and her father, former premier Nawaz Sharif.

The Punjab government has defended the advertisement campaign, with Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari dismissing the criticism by PTI as “propaganda.”

The appointed members are from each province and the federal capital.  According to The News, the appointment was approved on the prime minister’s advice. The newly appointed members include Sabahat Rafique for Punjab, Haider Naqvi for Sindh, Iftikhar Firdous for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Ayesha Ayub Wadood for Balochistan, and Dr. Rashid Wali Janjua for the Federal Capital Territory.

PEMRA’s structure consists of a chairman and twelve members, which includes these five new appointees from across the country. The regulatory body also includes five ex-officio members such as the secretaries of Information and Home departments, as well as the chairmen of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and the Revenue Board. Additionally, PEMRA includes one executive member, along with a representative each from the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) and the Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA), who are already in place.

On March 5, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting had appointed Dr. Lubna Zaheer as the Chairperson of the Punjab PEMRA Council of Complaints. Dr. Lubna, a professor at the School of Communication Studies at Punjab University, previously served on the Council from 2015 to 2019. Additionally, Rashida Suhail and Zahid Maqsood had also been appointed as initial members of the Council.

Photo: ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN, DEC 16: President, Asif Ali Zardari addressing the 3rd China-
Indian Ocean Region Forum on Blue Economy held in Kunming, through a video message in
Islamabad on Monday, December 16, 2024. (PPI Images).

According to an official notification, Professor Dr. Lubna Zaheer has been named Chairperson of the Council. She is a professor at Punjab University’s School of Communication Studies (SCS) and heads the Department of Film and Broadcasting (DFB) at the university.

Dr. Zaheer, a media expert, political analyst, and senior academician, has extensive experience in journalism, media governance, and regulatory affairs. This marks her second tenure with the PEMRA Council of Complaints, having previously served as a member from 2015 to 2019.

Dr. Zaheer has participated in international conferences on communication and media. The Ministry has also appointed Rashida Suhail and Zahid Maqsood members of the Punjab Council of Complaints.

Photo: PEMRA logo

The meeting, held in Islamabad, focused on various challenges, including significant financial and legal hurdles that cable operators are encountering.

Minister Tarar recognized the cable operators’ integral role in providing public access to various information sources, such as news broadcasts, educational content, and documentaries. He assured the cable operators that their issues would be resolved as a priority.

Photo: LAHORE, PAKISTAN, JUN 03: Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah
Tarar addressing a press conference in Lahore on Monday, June 3, 2024. (PPI Images).

PPF stands in solidarity with Dawn and urges the federal and Punjab governments to immediately withdraw their policy targeting the publication by halting advertising. We also call on the Sindh government to immediately stop their practice of periodically withholding advertisements to Dawn.

It is unacceptable that the federal and Punjab governments have denied advertisements to Dawn for the past five months while continuing to publicly claim to support journalists and the media. Despite claiming to stand with journalists and vocally criticizing other governments’ policies while in opposition, the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) government at the helm nationally and in Punjab has shown that its promises do not extend beyond mere lip service.

Meanwhile, the Sindh government has also “periodically” withheld ads. The Pakistan Peoples
Party (PPP) has also repeatedly shared that they support journalists. Unfortunately, financially
targeting the leading English newspaper of the country, shows otherwise.

In an editorial, Dawn reacted to the suspension of ads stating: “The current regime’s attempt to punish the paper has taken a different form, but its aim is the same: to apply pressure tactics to gain compliance. This publication always takes into consideration multiple angles when making editorial decisions. Others may not always agree with its stance, but pressure tactics will not force Dawn to abandon principled journalism. Its duty, first and foremost, is to maintain journalistic integrity.”

A declaration issued by the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) cited the case of Dawn stating that it was being denied advertisements by the federal, Punjab, and Sindh governments for “its professional approach to reporting and critical editorials.”

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) expressed serious concern about the withholding of ads from Dawn and reminded the government that it was constitutionally bound to protect people’s right to information and freedom of expression.

“Tacit censorship in the form of financial pressure must not be allowed to control narratives or undermine press freedom. By threatening the survival of independent journalism and critical editorial policies, the government is doing itself—and the people it claims to represent—an enormous disservice in the long term,” HRCP stated on X.

The Karachi Press Club (KPC) has also condemned the move. In a post shared on X, KPC President Fazil Jamili said that the KPC stood in solidarity with the newspaper and vowed to fight together against all efforts to restrict free expression in Pakistan.

Photo Source: Dawn logo

In his message, President Zardari called upon newspapers to champion moral, ethical, and democratic principles, emphasizing their role in promoting tolerance, interfaith harmony, patriotism, and human rights. “In today’s digital age, where fake news spreads rapidly, newspapers must uphold the highest standards of truth, using modern technology to counter misinformation,” Zardari said. He congratulated the All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS) for its contributions and reaffirmed the importance of a free, responsible press to sustain a vibrant democracy.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif echoed these sentiments, encouraging citizens to cultivate newspaper reading habits as a means to counter fake news and nurture a responsible, informed society. Sharif described newspapers as the “cornerstone of democracy,” stressing their role in shaping public discourse throughout Pakistan’s history, from the independence movement to present day. He noted that while social media provides quick access to information, the editorial rigor of newspapers offers unmatched reliability.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur emphasized the critical role of newspapers in building an informed society. “Promoting reading habits among citizens is essential to combat the challenges posed by the unchecked spread of unverified news. Without press freedom and ensuring people’s right to know, we cannot achieve our goal of a strong and democratic Pakistan,” he said. He further highlighted his government’s commitment to positive journalism and welfare for journalists, adding, “Guiding society in the right direction is a shared responsibility, and print media has a prominent role in this.”

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah also acknowledged the vital role of newspapers in preserving the province’s rich cultural heritage. “Newspapers have been instrumental in informing the public about Sindh’s social, political, and economic developments. They provide a platform for diverse voices and offer a window into the global landscape while focusing on local issues that matter to our citizens,” he said. The Chief Minister stressed the need for newspapers to maintain quality and integrity, especially in the face of growing digital misinformation. “By promoting newspaper readership, we can combat the spread of fake news and nurture a more informed and tolerant society,” he added.

Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani also weighed in on the importance of newspapers in fostering accountability and promoting national discourse. “Newspapers are more than just a source of news; they are a repository of knowledge, a mirror reflecting the diverse voices of our society, and a guardian against misinformation,” he said. “In order to engage meaningfully in civic discourse and make informed decisions that affect our country, we must cultivate the habit of reading newspapers,” the Chairman emphasized. He also highlighted the importance of supporting the press, saying, “The role of newspapers in providing credible and balanced perspectives is indispensable for the healthy functioning of our democracy.”

Federal Minister for Information, Broadcasting, National Heritage, and Culture Attaullah Tarar added that newspapers continue to uphold the values of truth, integrity, and accountability in an era when misinformation threatens the fabric of society. He credited newspapers with maintaining a level of reliability unmatched by other media platforms and urged the public to embrace newspaper reading as a vital tool for staying informed.

In a joint statement, APNS President Nazafreen Saigol Lakhani and Secretary General Sarmad Ali emphasized that this tax could lead to higher prices for readers and advertisers, potentially reducing the reach of newspapers and limiting public access to information. In a statement, the APNS pointed out that the newspaper industry is facing severe economic challenges due to declining revenues from advertisements and circulation. The additional tax burden could exacerbate these issues, potentially leading to the closure of smaller newspapers and job losses in the sector.

The APNS also underscored the importance of newspapers in promoting informed public discourse and maintaining democratic accountability. They argued that imposing a GST on newsprint contradicts the government’s commitment to supporting the media and ensuring the public’s right to information.

“The print media, a fundamental pillar of the state, plays a crucial role in safeguarding the public’s right to information and freedom of expression. In this era of rampant misinformation and disinformation, it is imperative for the government to ensure that the public has unfettered access to information,” the statement noted. It also included a request to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to consider repealing the GST on newsprint to support this cause.

“The Government of Pakistan recognizes the importance of freedom of the press and freedom of expression, and it is determined to protect the rights of journalists”, Tarar said.

The visiting journalists, including figures such as Iqtadar Ahmed, Mukrram Hussain, Riaz Ahmed, and others, acknowledged the importance of such visits for enhancing relations and promoting people-to-people contact between Bangladesh and Pakistan. They expressed their appreciation for the warm reception and support provided by the Government of Pakistan and its journalism institutions.

Recently, the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication announced the establishment of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) on April 24, replacing the Federal Investigation Agency’s Cybercrime Wing.  According to an Interior Ministry official, the NCCIA will be empowered through legislation giving it powers to police cyberspace.

Furthermore, on May 9, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved an amendment to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) 2016, which included the creation of a Digital Rights Protection Authority. The Authority will have the power to investigate violations of the new PECA law on social media and take appropriate action.

During the meeting, the APNS delegation led by APNS President Naz Afreen Sehgal Lakhani apprised the minister of the various challenges being faced by the industry, including the rising cost of newsprint, a decline in advertisement revenue, and issues related to distribution.

The newspaper industry sought government support through several measures, including a relaxation in taxes on the import of newsprint, financial assistance to upgrade printing presses, and a special advertising support package to help newspapers weather the current economic downturn.

Tarar assured the delegation that the government would take all possible steps to address their concerns. He said that the government recognizes the vital role played by the media, especially the print media, in informing and educating the public.

The APNS delegation also discussed the increase in rates of the government’s advertisements and the initial payment of the arrears of the member publications and requested a simplification in the process for renewing registration with the Press Registrar Office.

Participants included Naz Afreen Sehgal Lakhani, APNS President; Imtenan Shahid, APNS Senior Vice President; Sarmad Ali, APNS General Secretary; S.M. Munir Jilani, APNS Joint Secretary; and various members representing prominent publications. Some observers and members joined via Zoom.

Nazafreen Saigol Lakhani was unanimously elected President of the APNS, alongside other key appointments, including Imtinan Shahid as Senior Vice President, Muhammad Aslam Kazi as Vice President, Sarmad Ali as Secretary General, Syed Muhammad Munir Jilani as Joint Secretary and Shahab Zuberi as Finance Secretary of the Society.

The Council unanimously endorsed the Executive Committee’s report for the fiscal year 2023-2024, along with the Society’s Annual Accounts for 2023.

Comprising 116 members from various regions of the country, the General Council established an Election Commission chaired by Dr. Waqar Yousuf Azeemi, with Syed Irfan Shah and Zahid Hafeez serving as members. This Election Commission oversaw the election process for the Executive Committee for the year 2024-25.

The AGM expressed grave concern over the impact of the current economic crisis on print media. The newly elected Executive Committee urged the government to implement decisions made during Prime Minister Mian Shahbaz Sharif’s last tenure, including increasing government advertisement rates. They also pressed for the prompt payment of long-outstanding dues to the newspaper sector.

In a separate resolution, the APNS condemned the Press Information Department’s (PID) decision to remove 17 publications, including 11 APNS members, from the Combined Media List. The society appealed to the Ministry of Information to reverse this decision.

Several dailies and magazines were elected unopposed to the APNS Executive Committee for the upcoming term. Additionally, with seven candidates vying for six Karachi daily seats, the Election Commission conducted elections. Subsequently, Daily Aghaz, Daily Business Recorder, Daily Dawn, Daily Deyanat, Daily Jasarat, and Daily Jiddat emerged as the elected representatives through a secret ballot. The new Executive Committee also appointed Zahida Abbasi of Daily Nau Sijj, Karachi, to the woman-publisher seat.

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah congratulated the newly elected APNS office bearers, stating, “I am confident that the newly elected office bearers will play a positive role for the responsible journalism […] and I will discuss their issues with the federal government.”

He said that the dues of print media would be cleared on a priority basis.

While talking to the delegation led by Syed Sarmad Ali, the Caretaker Minister said that the caretaker provincial government believed in freedom of expression.

Earlier, the delegation apprised the caretaker Minister of dues of newspaper, advertisement and other matters. The delegation included Javed Shamsi, Muhammad Younis Mehar, Zahida Abbasi, Rafiq Ahmed Pirzada, Imtiaz Qazi and Mumtaz Ahmed Phulpoto.

Source: Urdupoint

Print media in Pakistan has faced a formidable challenge in recent years, mirroring the global trend of contraction in this industry. Many newspapers have been discontinued, and others have reduced their page counts. Unfortunately, it’s the journalists and media employees who have borne the brunt of this technological transformation.

The rise of digital media

The shift from print to digital media has been pronounced in the first two decades of the 21st century. In the United States, for example, weekday newspaper circulation dropped from 55.8 million in 2000 to 24.2 million in 2020, reflecting a global trend. As circulation declined, revenue followed suit, with newspaper publishers’ revenue decreasing from $46.2 billion in 2002 to $22.1 billion in 2020. Digital media, especially the internet and television, has outpaced newspapers in reaching the masses and offering convenience in the fast-paced modern world.

The internet has emerged as a powerful technological tool that offers unparalleled reach and accessibility. Unlike newspapers, the internet allows for easy editing of content and real-time updates, rendering it a more accountable and dynamic medium. Many journalists have transitioned to digital media, recognising it as a more viable career option. Consequently, the combination of television and the internet has played a significant role in the decline of the newspaper industry.

The competition from digital media alternatives has led to reduced spending on newspaper advertising. In countries like the UK, advertising expenditure steadily increased for digital platforms while declining for news brands. This shift presents an opportunity for news firms to enhance their digital presence and offset declining newspaper advertising revenues.

The transition to paperless news has reduced the environmental footprint of the media industry, as there is less need for the mass production of newspapers. This change allows newspapers to reduce costs and expand their reach. Prominent publications like The Economist have recognised the value of the internet and social media platforms in reaching a broader audience, particularly the youth segment.

The decline of print media in Pakistan and globally is the result of a confluence of factors, including economic challenges, shifting consumer preferences, and the rise of digital alternatives. While this transformation presents numerous challenges, it also offers opportunities for media organisations to adapt, innovate, and remain relevant in an evolving media landscape. As technology continues to reshape the way we consume news and information, the survival of print media will depend on its ability to embrace digital platforms and cater to the changing needs of its audience.

One of the most profound effects of the decline of print media is the impact on journalists themselves. Many experienced journalists, who once relied on newspapers as their primary medium, have had to adapt to the digital landscape. This transition has not been without its challenges, as the skills required for print and digital journalism often differ significantly. However, it has also opened up new opportunities for those willing to embrace the digital era.

Young journalists, in particular, have found themselves attracted to digital media, seeing it as a more promising avenue for career growth. The allure of higher salaries and the potential for a wider audience have drawn many into the world of online reporting, podcasting, and video journalism. As a result, the journalism landscape in Pakistan is evolving, with a mix of experienced print journalists and a new generation of digital storytellers.

Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, TikTok and Instagram have further reshaped the way news is disseminated and consumed. These platforms allow for real-time reporting, citizen journalism, and the rapid spread of information. However, they also come with challenges related to misinformation, privacy, and the need for responsible reporting.

The future of print media

While the decline of print media is evident, it would be premature to write its obituary. Print publications still have dedicated readerships, particularly in rural areas where technology has not yet fully penetrated. The tactile experience of holding a newspaper or magazine and the trust associated with established brands continue to hold value for many readers.

In response to the changing landscape, some print publications have adopted a hybrid approach, maintaining their traditional formats while also expanding their digital presence. This diversification allows them to cater to a broader audience and secure their future in a media landscape that is evolving at a rapid pace.

The decline of print media in Pakistan and globally is a complex phenomenon driven by economic challenges, changing consumer preferences, and the rise of digital alternatives. While the print media industry faces significant hurdles, it also has opportunities to adapt, innovate, and coexist with digital platforms. The future of journalism in Pakistan and around the world will depend on the ability of media organisations to navigate these changes, uphold journalistic integrity, and continue providing valuable information to their audiences, whether in print or digital form. As technology continues to reshape the media landscape, one thing remains certain: the need for credible and reliable journalism has never been greater.

Source:  The News

This was stated by the Sindh Caretaker Information, Social Protection and Minorities Affairs Minister Muhammad Ahmed Shah during his visit to the office of the Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE) on Friday.

Shah told the CPNE office-bearers that the interim CM had assigned him the portfolio of the provincial information department keeping in view his cordial and close association with the media fraternity.

He said the Sindh government would not ignore any newspaper while issuing government advertisements. He told the CPNE members that the interim government would take steps to provide insurance coverage to the working journalists including photographers, cameramen, and editors.

He said the government would soon pay the dues to the newspapers and other publications belonging to the CPNE members. Shah said the government would take steps to strengthen the Sindh Commission for Protection of Journalists and Other Media Practitioners, and Sindh Information Commission. He also assured the CPNE members that culprits behind the killing of Sukkur-based journalist Jan Mahar would be apprehended.

Source: The News

There were 24,000 copies of Jang in the market, but now there are only 4,500 copies

Mehboob Ali said that earlier, 24,000 copies of Jang were available in the newspaper market of Quetta, but now there are only 4,500 copies. Now even if Jang Express East and local newspapers are combined, 9 thousand copies are not enough in the newspaper market. Commission on big newspapers is 8 to 10 rupees while small newspapers give commission of 3 to 5 rupees. So guess what commission 400 hawkers will earn on 9000 newspaper copies. If the government offices do not close the newspapers, then the hawkers’ employment will go on well, while the domestic consumers should also think that by paying a thousand rupees per month, the stoves of the hawkers’ houses will continue to burn.

55-year-old Abdul Aleem, who runs a newspaper stall at Bacha Khan Chowk in Quetta city, says that earlier there were more than 12 stalls at Bacha Khan Chowk, which have reduced to only 2 stalls where daily, weekly, monthly and magazines are sold. But now the buyers are very few. The day when there are tender vacancies and judicial advertisement in the newspaper, then the newspaper sells more. Few people now buy newspapers to read news. Explaining the reasons for the low sales of newspapers, he said that earlier there was a bus stand on the circular road, then passengers used to carry newspapers, then with the end of the stand, after the advent of the Internet and social media, people no longer feel the need to buy newspapers. .

After the advent of social media, the readership of newspapers has decreased a lot

Abdul Aleem says that earlier there used to be big news in newspapers, so we used to tell the news loudly, so people were attracted towards buying the newspaper. Now there is no local big news in the newspaper, all the newspapers are full of press releases and official statements.

Babrik Niaz, chairman of the Department of Mass Communication of Balochistan University, says that the readership of newspapers has decreased greatly after the advent of social media platforms. Because news in newspaper comes after 24 hours but on social media news comes in minutes. Mobile laptop net is available to every person due to which people get information and WhatsApp groups have made access to news even easier.

Even those who were good writers have appeared on TV or on their YouTube channel

Babrik Niaz says that those who were good writers have also appeared on TV or on their YouTube channel. And the quality of newspapers is also not the same. Previously, the identification of public problems was seen in the editorial or the editorial policy of the newspaper. There used to be dialogue in newspapers, but now that too has ended, the purpose of newspapers has almost died.

Babrik Niaz says that apart from this, if you look at the other side, the tendency of reading has also decreased in the society. Newspapers also come in digital but it is very rare that a column is read by anyone in PDF. Even lecturers in university colleges now give specific reading material to students, whereas earlier whole books were given. Then artificial intelligence has reduced the process of further research and reading. Today’s youth strives to get relevant content as quickly and easily as possible, which has further reduced the reading process.

Now journalism in Pakistan has become a business rather than a mission

Babrik Niaz believes that now journalism in Pakistan has become a business rather than a mission. Today’s owners focus on advertising not news, because of which they cannot go against anyone other than their interest and that is why the nature of the news is affected. He says that every year 50 BS students pass out from Jamia Balochistan, but only 5% are hardly visible in the media. Because media students also think that theater or film is taught here, but when they study, then they don’t go to the media. Those who understand the media are the only ones who come to the news media, while only 4 women in the media of Balochistan. There are reporters. There is also Sardar Bahadur Khan Women’s University from where mass media students pass out in large numbers every year.

Balochistan Union of Journalists General Secretary Manzoor Baloch says that our union has a very clear and strict policy that we do not believe in fake newspapers or beggar campuses. We oppose such declarations that newspapers print a few copies and carry government advertisements. Our demand is that all newspapers should have regular staff and beggar camps are those newspapers which are in the market but they run on the news of news agencies. They don’t have their own reporters, photographers, and they hire people without paying their card, that’s why we don’t give membership to people who are not permanently posted in any organization. For this reason, BUJ is facing criticism and we do not have any units in different districts of Balochistan because a system has been run to earn money for ourselves and also to give money to the organization due to which journalism is also affected and this process. We consider it against journalistic standards and values.

Newspapers in Balochistan are not coming to the digital side

Manzoor Baloch says that if newspapers around the world have gone down, then they have gone digital, but we are not seeing this in Balochistan because they cannot display fake circulation on digital media. There are few newspapers in Balochistan that have gone digital. Most of them have not happened yet, which is the reason why print media journalism in Balochistan is nearing its end. We have also met the owners of various newspapers many times and asked them to hire employees while we have also demanded the government to oblige dummy newspapers to have regular office and staff so that media with employment opportunities in Balochistan. Students also got an opportunity for journalism. And print media journalism also flourished.

John Achakzai, caretaker information minister of Balochistan government, says that the problem of unemployment is in every sector. Journalism is free in Balochistan. Media institutions also have a responsibility to provide training and opportunities to new graduates. But it is also true that at present the local newspaper owners are also facing difficulties because the government advertisements are very less while the private sector in Balochistan is not that strong. But still organizations have to make sacrifices to keep the industry alive. Difficulties are temporary and it is the responsibility of the owners of newspapers in Balochistan to play a role in the promotion of journalism in the province. Caretaker Information Minister John Achakzai further said that advertisements are given to newspapers based on their circulation, which does not take into account the number of employees working in the newspapers and their salaries.

Source: TNN

“The editor’s department is very important in newspapers. No other medium of media, especially the electronic one, has as many filters as there are in newspapers,” the interim information minister said while addressing ‘Meet the Editors’ programme organised by the Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE) on Sunday.

Solangi was of the view that the main reason for the poor condition of the media was that many newspapers had eliminated the editorial department.

To a question, Solangi said, “We respect criticism. If something wrong has been done, criticise it, but do not punish us for an uncommitted sin.”

The caretaker information minister said that there was no restriction on the publication of news of all the registered political parties in the country, except for the ones of leaders whose legal cases were being heard in the courts

Solangi assured the CPNE that obstacles faced by the regional newspapers and journals in receiving advertisements would be remove

CPNE Secretary General Ejazul Haq told the caretaker information minister that a major recovery in terms of advertisements was still delayed. “There is a need to develop a strategy to solve the serious problems faced by the print media.”

Senior Vice President Anwar Sajdi said that there was a need to pay immediate attention to the crisis of newspapers and magazines due to economic problems.

Vice President Sindh Amir Mahmood said that the information minister, being a journalist himself, knew the importance of newspapers and the editors’ institution. “If newspapers exist, there will be editors. We are sure they will try their best to solve the problems of the newspapers.

He presented the problems faced by the journalists in detail. At the end, Solangi was presented with a reward and a shield by Sajdi, Haq, Mahmood and other members

On this occasion, Principal Information Officer Muhammad Asim, PID Karachi DG Iram Tanveer, CPNE Finance Secretary Ghulam Nabi Chandio, Deputy Secretary General Hamid Hussain Abidi, Joint Secretary Maqsood Yousufi and other members Dr Jabar Khattak, Saeed Khawar, Qazi Asad Abid, Faqir Manthar Mungrio, Ahmed Iqbal Baloch, Hassan Abbas, Qazi Sajjad Akbar, Javed Mehr Shamsi, Bashir Memon, Ayaz Memon, Nusrat Mirza, Sher Muhammad Khawar, Mahmood Alam Khalid, Salman Qureshi, Hamida Ghangharu, Manza Saham, Naseem Akhtar Sheikh, Ali Bin Younis, Shahid Satti, Mudassar Alam, Syed Mudassar Bukhari, Ali Hamza Afghan, Asad Siddiqui, Atif Sadiq Sheikh, Haroon Rasheed, Imran Korai, Kashif Hussain Memon, Muhammad Siraj, Zain, Tariq Aziz, Asim, Nasir Khattak, Rehman Malik, Muhammad Ali, Tawfiq Ah (Feels incomplete)

Source: Express Tribune

Justice Arbab Mohammad Tahir issued notices to the secretaries of the President House, Prime Minister’s Office, Establishment Division and sought their reply in two weeks.

The last PCP chairman, Salahuddin Mengal, completed his three-year tenure in July 2019. The process to appoint another chairman was initiated by the PTI government, but remained inconclusive.

The PDM government, too, had finalised names and the pay scale for the slot of PCP chairman. Former information minister Marriyum Aurangzeb approved a summary on Nov 1 last year and forwarded the names of three shortlisted candidates, along with the selection board’s assessment, to the PM Office.

The three names were: Arshad Khan Jadoon, Mohammad Akram Khaksar and Dr G.M. Chaudhry, all of them lawyers.

The board awarded 295 marks to Mr Jadoon, 278 to Mr Khaksar and 267 to Dr Chaudhry. The petition was filed by Arshad Khan Jadoon through his counsel, Barrister Jahangir Khan Jadoon.

It said former PM Shehbaz Sharif had approved Mr Jadoon’s name and forwarded it to President Dr Arif Alvi.

But the resident decided to interview the candidates first, the petitioner said. The summary was returned to the PM Office and Shehbaz Sharif approved Mr Jadoon for the post.

According to the petitioner, President Alvi withheld the summary without assigning any reason.

The petitioner said he had served as chairman of the Implementation Tribunal of Newspapers Employees for two years and as deputy attorney general in 2015.

“It is a principle of law that an appointing authority does not have unfettered, unbridled, unregulated and biased discretion and in this particular case, the President ignored the advice of the PM, and discarded the entire selection exercise on a mere whim,” Mr Jadoon said.

Source: Dawn

The annual meeting of the body’s general council elected Imtinan Shahid as senior vice president, Muhammad Aslam Kazi as vice president, S.M. Munir Jilani as joint secretary and Shahab Zuberi as finance secretary.

The general council, held under the chairmanship of Sarmad Ali, the outgoing president, was attended by 128 members from across the country.

The APNS expressed its profound concern on the state of print media as the present economic situation had plunged the industry into a severe financial crisis. A number of newspapers were on the verge of closure, it added.

“In this situation, the media expects support from the government to brave the financial crunch,” the APNS said.

It called upon the federal government to clear outstanding dues of the industry exceeding Rs2 billion, raise the quantum of advertisements and allocate a separate share for the print media in its advertising budget.

Such initiatives are necessary for enabling newspapers to survive the economic headwinds buffeting the industry, the APNS said.

Source: Dawn

Mr. Nadeem-ur-Rehman Memon, Secretary Information, Sindh attended the meeting of the Executive Committee on special invitation by the President. The members apprised him on the problems faced by member publications based in Sindh. The Secretary acknowledged the issue of non-payment of non-budgeted dues for previous years as well as delayed payments of budgeted dues and assured that the Sindh Information Department intends to sort out the issues and have requested the provincial government to allocate a certain amount in the budget to streamline the payment system. He reiterated that a tri-partite reconciliation to verify the old outstanding as well as budgeted and non-budgeted dues will be completed in 15 days.

The Executive Committee expressed its concern over the delay in payments by the Federal as well as Sindh, Punjab and KPK provincial governments. The members emphasized that publications are going through acute financial hardships because of non-payment of these dues. The Secretary General, Ms. Nazafreen Saigol Lakhani informed them of ongoing discussions with the Federal and provincial governments and commitments made by both governments to work with the APNS to expedite the recovery of dues. The Secretary General informed the Executive Committee members that she is exerting all efforts to ensure recovery of dues as soon as possible.

The following aldo attended the meeting: Sarmad Ali, President, Shahab Zuberi, Vice President, Nazafreen Saigol Lakhani, Secretary General, Mohsin Bilal, Joint Secretary, Bilal Farooqui (Daily Aghaz), Najamuddin Sheikh (Daily Deyanat), Muhammad Younus Mehar (Daily Halchal), Kazi Mustafa (Daily Ibrat), Syed Akbar Tahir (Daily Jasarat), Javed Mehr Shamsi (Daily Kaleem), Mirza Zafar Javaid (Daily Kawish), Muhammad Manzoor Rana (Daily Mashriq, Quetta).

Source: Pakistan observer

Under this mechanism, the federal and provincial governments pay their verified advertising bills directly to the relevant media and the agency commission/trade discount is paid directly to the advertising agencies based on an 85/15 formula.

This entails 85pc being paid to media and 15pc to advertising agencies for services rendered.

“The media bodies are of the considered view that this system ensures timely and transparent disbursement of media and agency dues,” they said in a statement.

The representative bodies of media have stated that if the above-agreed formula was withdrawn by the Punjab government, the media would be deprived of the timely payments of the advertisements published/aired by the media.

The APNS, PBA and CPNE have also requested the provincial government to take the media stakeholders on board before finalizing its advertising policy.

Source: Dawn, The Nation

Dissolving provincial government is tantamount to admitting failure. The economic situation in the country has pushed politics a step back. All the parties have to go beyond their political and party interests and decide the strategy for the survival and security of the country. Social media has changed the standard of accountability. Media today is stronger and more active than in the past. Every leader is accountable for his performance in the media on a daily basis. I have been participating in elections since 1988. No election has been transparent. Truth needs to be promoted more than reconciliation, the effects of the elections after 2018 are there.

The country has gone back 5 years and it will take another 5 years to bring the economy back. Running a coalition government is not an easy task but its Decisions are very durable and long lasting. Not only in Pakistan but all over the world, political parties do not have a democratic atmosphere within themselves. It depends on the leadership. Conflicting interests of the provincial and federal governments is the main reason for the instability of the local government system. Depreciation of dollar is subject to demand and supply and the government has to face many trials to control the inflationary situation. At the end of the ceremony Secretary General CPNE Aamir Mehmood addressed the distinguished guest. Honorary Shield and Chairman CPNE Sindh Committee Hamid Hussain Abdi presented the gift of Ajarak.

On this occasion CPNE (Sindh) President Dr. Jabbar Khattak along with members Ijazul Haque, Maqsood Yousufi, Abdul Khaliq Ali, Ghulam Nabi Chandio, Tahir Najmi, Arif Baloch, Sher Muhammad Khawar, Mahmood Alam Khalid, Salman Qureshi, Shahid Sati, Younis Mehr, Manza Saham, Mohammad Anwar, Zia Qureshi, Imran Shahzad, Atif Sadiq Sheikh, Khushi Mohammad, Nasir Khattak and Rashid Jamal participated.

Source: Daily Times

He was speaking to a delegation of the All Pakistan Newspapers Society comprising President APNS Sarmad Ali, Mujeeb ur Rahman Shami, Jamil Ather, Nazafreen Saigol Lakhani, Shahab Zuberi, Khushnood Ali Khan, Umer Mujib Shami, Mumtaz Tahir, Muhammad Awais Khushnood, Mumtaz Ali Shah, S.M. Munir Jillani, Humayon Gulzar, Humayon Tariq, Syed Sajjad Bokhari, Bilal Mahmood.

The Chief Minister was apprised about the problems and issues being faced by the newspaper industry in general and Punjab based publications in particular. Chaudhry Parvez Elahi assured that his government appreciates the importance of print media and would address the problems of newspapers on top priority.

He advised the DGPR Punjab to clear the outstanding dues of newspapers within one month. On request of APNS, the Chief Minister announced that henceforth 25 percent quota for regional newspapers will be implemented for all provincial government advertisements including colour ads.

He was apprised on the concerns of APNS on Punjab’s advertising policy. Chaudhry Parvez Elahi decided to form a committee of stakeholders comprising the representatives of the Information Department and APNS to review the advertising policy and suggest changes in the policy.

Principal Secretary to CM Punjab Muhammad Khan Bhatti, Secretary Information Punjab, Asif Bilal Lodhi and DGPR Punjab Afraz Ahmed were also present in the meeting.

Later the Executive Committee of the APNS held its meeting. The Executive Committee noted that the federal government despite its various assurances given to APNS have not been implemented to clear long outstanding dues of the print media.

The federal government has also not announced an increase in the government advertisement rates and quantum as promised by the prime minister in his meeting with APNS and the federal information minister in her interactions with the Society.

It was agreed that the APNS will apprise the prime minister of this delay and request him to address the above problems faced by the newspaper industry. The Executive Committee was also apprised that the KP government has not cleared the long outstanding dues of over Rs 1.5 billion relating to provincial government advertisements. It was decided that office-bearers of APNS will take up the matter with the KP government on urgent basis.

The Executive Committee approved the recommendations of Advertising Committee, Regional Press Committee and Scrutiny Committee. It was decided to grant associate membership to Daily Minute Mirror Lahore and provisional accreditation to M/s. Dynamic Media Lahore

Source: Business Recorder

As per the Deutsche Welle report, Pakistan’s news hawkers showed their fear of losing their jobs as people started relying more on digital and social media platforms.

Different news vendors in South Asian states as a whole are having similar concerns.

As per the report, the era of digital media in Pakistan started during the presidency of General Pervez Musharraf which eclipsed print Publications.

Then people were surrounded by widely accessible cell phones, social media platforms, and internet connectivity which further hurt newspaper sales as consumers started reading news online.

The general secretary of the Newspaper Hawkers Union, Aqeel Abbasi stated that Successful governments haven’t taken interest in the welfare of newspaper hawkers, so they are generally disheartened, insecure, and always on the lookout for better options to make money.

He further revealed that before the Musharraf era Rawalpindi had around 1,600 newspaper vendors while Islamabad had 700 but the sales had been reduced that 900 and 480 respectively.

According to an expert, the Covid-19 pandemic and economic crisis also accelerated the decline.

The news vendor forewarned that the print media would be forced to lay off the majority of its workers if the decline in revenues did not cease.

Source: Minute Mirror

Sarmad Ali, President and Nazafreen Saigol Lakhani Secretary General of the All Pakistan Newspapers Society have noted with pleasure that on the request of the APNS, the Federal Govt has withdrawn the ban on purchase of newspapers and magazines by the Federal Govt departments. The ban was imposed as an austerity measure by the Federal Govt in July, 2022. The withdrawal of the ban could only be possible with the keen and personal interest taken by the Federal Information Minister.

The APNS thanks Marium Aurangzeb for her media friendly approach and efforts put in to solve the problems of newspapers industry. The APNS is confident that the Ministry would also play its positive role in helping the newspapers industry to brave the current financial crunch especially it will finalise the long pending issue of increase in the govt advertising rates and quantum of govt advertising.—PR

Source: Business Recorder

In a letter to all ministries/ division/ departments, Deputy Secretary (Exp-CGA), Adeel Ashraf, noted that first meeting of Austerity Committee was held on September 14, 2022 chaired by finance minister; and was apprised that a number of offices have requested a withdrawal of the ban on periodicals, magazines and newspapers. Further, this ban created problems for hawkers as they became jobless.

According to Finance Division, keeping in view the hardship of newspapers hawkers, the committee decided to relax the ban imposed vide No(1)(ix) of Finance Division’s O.M of July 7, 2022 subject to fulfilment of all codal formalities and meeting the expenditure from within the budget allocated for FY 2022-23.

Source: Business Recorder

In a joint statement, PFUJ President Afzal Butt and Secretary General Arshad Ansari in a joint statement said the ITNE had been without a judge for more than two years, which resulted in the pendency of hundreds of cases filed by journalists.

“One of the major obstacles in accessing justice is the absence of judges. Appointment of judges is a central component to enhance access to justice,” they said.

It is noteworthy here that ITNE is the only forum available for redressing the grievances of journalists and media workers against the newspapers’ management and owners.

“This is a highly alarming situation that despite Islamabad High Court’s orders, the ITNE judge is not being appointed, and the court orders are being violated,” PFUJ lamented.

“Why the appointment of a judge of the (ITNE) is being delayed? Only the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting knows it. Resultantly, journalists and media workers are facing financial constraints. This negligence on the part of the authorities has become unbearable,” they added.

Access to justice is a fundamental principle of the rule of law. Without access to justice, journalists and media workers cannot have their voices heard, exercise their rights, challenge discrimination, or hold wrongdoers accountable.

They also demanded the appointment of ITNE judges in every provincial capital, Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, and Peshawar, apart from the federal capital.

“Delivery of justice should be immediate as justice delayed is justice denied. Therefore, the appointment of ITNE judges is an essential prerequisite for upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice,” they concluded.

Source: Journalism Pakistan

Source: The nation

Source: Irshi videos , Daily the Patriot

He was hearing a case on journalists and media workers’ protection, job security and implementation of wage award.

Senior journalist Hamid Mir informed the court that despite the court’s direction issued in December last year for the appointment of the ITNE chairman, the post was still vacant.

On the court’s query, information ministry representatives said the summary had been forwarded to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Aug 19. It stated that the post of chairman ITNE was lying vacant since March 7, 2021.

The post was advertised through national dailies on May 31, 2022. The selection board conducted interviews of 13 candidates on June 30.

Justice Minallah termed it a violation of Article 19 of the Constitution if the government could not ensure press freedom. Further hearing in the matter was adjourned till October 21

Source: Dawn

According to a statement issued by the CPNE Secretary General, Amir Mahmood, the objectives of the Editors-Government Liaison Committee include right to awareness, freedom of the press and policies and laws related to the media, problems faced by editors, including economic stability of print media and liaise with the government authorities to ensure transparency in state’s advertisements etc. The committee will report its decisions, recommendations and performance to the Standing Committee of CPNE from time to time.

The Editors-Government Liaison Committee of CPNE will consist of 9 members with Ejazul Haq as its chairman. Other members of the committee include Ayaz Khan (Daily Express Lahore), Muhammad Haider Amin/Irshad Ahmed Arif (Daily 92 News Lahore), Rameeza Nizami/Salman Masood (Daily Nawa-i-Waqt Lahore), Dr Jabbar Khattak (Daily Awami Awaz Karachi), Yousuf Nizami (Daily Pakistan Today Lahore), Tahir Farooq (Daily Ittehad Peshawar), Arif Baloch (Daily Balochistan Express Quetta) and Sardar Khan Niazi (Monthly Naya Rukh Islamabad).

Source: The Nation

Sarmad Ali, President and Nazafreen Saigol Lakhani, Secretary General of the All Pakistan Newspapers Society have stated that the above decision has sounded a death knell to the newspaper industry struggling for survival in the present bleak economic environment. It was an ill-advised as well as a true description of a penny-wise pound-foolish measure. The APNS Office Bearers stated that the decision, if implemented, would have devastating impact on the liquidity conditions of already crisis ridden newspaper industry and would badly reflect on the relations between the present Unity Government and the media.

The APNS Office Bearers have requested the Prime Minister, Mian Shahbaz Sharif to review and withdraw such anti-media moves which would only save some peanuts but would be highly counterproductive for press – government relations and survival of print media.

Source: Islamabad Posts

Sarmad Ali, President and Nazafreen Saigol Lakhani, Secretary General of the All Pakistan Newspapers Society have stated that the above decision has sounded a death knell to the newspaper industry struggling for survival in the present bleak economic environment. It was an ill-advised as well as a true description of a penny-wise pound-foolish measure.

The APNS office-bearers stated that the decision, if implemented, would have devastating impact on the liquidity conditions of already crisis ridden newspaper industry and would badly reflect on the relations between the present unity government and the media.

The APNS office-bearers have requested Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to review and withdraw such anti-media moves which would only save some peanuts but would be highly counterproductive for press–government relations and survival of print media.—PR

Source: Business Recorder

The fear of extinction has caused hassle in the print media industry which made them branch out from traditional printed form to an electronic form of news. The media companies developed their own social media platforms on the apps such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and the respective digital apps of their newspapers as well as their own company websites. Mostly, the young millennial spend more of their time on the internet than reading printed material.

They prefer articles on their computers or other electronic devices other than printed newspapers. Newspapers are more popular in the senior citizens as they stick to the traditional way of knowing the daily news. It is a habit we see mostly in older people to get up early and read the newspaper while having breakfast, whereas the millennial did not even develop this habit.

Source: Pakistan Observer