Protecting Journalists
The attack on Absar Alam, a senior journalist and former chairman of Pakistan Electronic Media Authority (Pemra) was an alarming event that has alerted the journalist community, civil society and law enforcement officials alike.
It is extremely relieving that the senior journalist has survived the attack and is out of danger now. However, this by no means undermines the gravity of this incident and the seriousness with which the government must handle it.
It is becoming increasingly difficult to be a journalist around the world, and incidents like these, whether the motive was to threaten reporting or personal, further discourages journalists from doing their job. Media is the fourth pillar of the state, and a healthy democratic society cannot thrive if its citizens do not have responsible and free news organisations.
With the rise of social media information and cybercrime, it has become even more challenging for journalists to protect their safety and privacy. However, it is precisely with the rise of social media and fake news that the importance of a free and fair press, operating without threats or danger, should be realised to challenge the spread of misinformation and unverified news.
It is a good sign that the government seems to understand the implications behind an attack on the former Pemra chairman and is speaking out about the incident. Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid took notice of the attack, saying he had ordered the Islamabad IG to investigate. Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Fawad Chaudhry condemned the incident and stated the police had been asked to investigate the attack.
It is essential that the investigation be conducted to assess the motive and find those responsible. The government must take steps to further protect the journalism community and ensure that freedom of press is thriving in this country without any threats or hostility.
Newspaper: The Nation (Editorial)
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