Rethink needed in media’s coverage of violence: Sherry
LONDON: Minister for Information and Broadcasting Sherry Rehman has called for a rethink in the media’s approach to cover issues related to violence.
“Violence is a very sensitive issue and just as all those who interact with violence victims need to demonstrate care and sensitivity,” Sherry Rehman said, referring to the case of Maria Shah, who is under treatment in Karachi for acid burns.
“Media too should ensure that its coverage not only helps the violence victims, but also addresses the issue in the larger context,” said the minister, who visited Maria Shah in Karachi last week to extend the government’s support to the victim. She said the government had stepped up efforts to nab culprit Muhammad Arsalan Sanjrani.
“An FIR has been lodged, and, his brother and father have been detained by the police to ensure his early arrest.” Sherry said Sanjrani’s photos will be issued to the media to facilitate his arrest.
“As a mark of our commitment to deprive such criminals with impunity, I have, with the permission of the prime minister, directed the PTV and requested all private media to publicize his photo everywhere so that he is nabbed. We wish to leave no space for criminals to hide.” She urged the media to focus on the culprit in the coverage of crimes to discourage such acts of violence in the future.
“We have seen that the strategy of highlighting the victims alone does not help in the resolution of issues related to violence in the larger context. We need to direct our attention to the culprits, discrediting them for such inhuman acts and mobilizing the public opinion against these crimes to help end such practices.”
Source: The news
Date:1/24/2009
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