The National Assembly Secretariat enforced a ban on video recording inside the Parliament House. The decision, announced on November 7th, follows complaints from lawmakers who accused journalists of recording their interviews and statements without prior consent and sharing the footage on social media.

According to the Secretariat, the issue arose when journalists approached members of the National Assembly (MNAs) in the corridors after sessions and committee meetings. Alongside using content on mainstream media, they said journalists post it on social media.

“They also ask us straight and some time tricky questions, which usually do not suit the ruling parties,” reported Dawn.

Lawmakers brought the matter to the Speaker’s attention, leading to swift action by the National Assembly Secretariat. In a letter addressed to the Parliamentary Reporters Association, the Director General of Media for the National Assembly highlighted the concerns raised during the 10th NA session. Members of parliament have expressed severe reservations and displeasure over this practice, the letter stated.

In response, the Secretariat announced, “A decision has been made to impose a ban on any kind of video recording within Parliament House.” The directive sets out strict penalties for those who fail to comply, including the potential confiscation of mobile phones, revoking of press gallery access cards, and restricted entry into Parliament House.