Journalists, rights activists voice concern over rising restrictions on press freedom in Pakistan
Concerns Grow Over Press Freedom in Pakistan Amid Rising Restrictions
In Pakistan, journalists and rights activists are raising serious worries about increasing restrictions on press freedom. Many compare today’s media censorship to the tough times during General Ziaul Haq’s military rule. These concerns came to light during events held in Islamabad this week, honoring veteran journalists Nisar Osmani and CR Shamsi, who fought for journalists’ rights during difficult political times.
During a seminar at the National Press Club, leaders and members of journalist unions paid tribute to these freedom fighters and highlighted the ongoing struggle for a free press in Pakistan. They emphasized that the work of Osmani and Shamsi still inspires journalists today to stand firm against threats and censorship.
Outside the Dawn offices, journalists, politicians, and rights activists gathered in a candlelight vigil to honor Osmani and Shamsi. Speakers called for unity among journalists to resist government efforts aimed at silencing the media. They vowed to continue fighting back against strict laws, like the recent amendments to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), which many see as a tool to suppress free speech.
Many journalists now face threats, harassment, even abduction and violence just for doing their jobs. Experts say that an independent press is essential for a healthy democracy. There were reports earlier this year about the government blocking roads leading to the National Press Club, which some critics describe as trying to “besiege” journalists and restrict their movement.
In August, Pakistan’s Human Rights Council (HRC) strongly condemned the cases filed under PECA against four women journalists — Nayyar Ali, Sehrish Qureshi, Maira Imran, and Shakeela Jalil. The HRC called these actions an attack on freedom of expression and warned that targeting women journalists worsens the challenges they already face working in difficult conditions.
The HRC also criticized the harassment and legal cases against these women, saying it was deeply troubling to target journalists because of their work, especially women in a sensitive profession like journalism. They demanded immediate justice and protection for these women journalists.
The rights body appealed to all civil society groups, media organizations, and human rights groups to unite and speak out against these threats. Protecting free journalism and the rights of women journalists remains a priority to ensure democracy and freedom of expression in Pakistan.
