A lot of lip service has been done by successive governments for the protection of rights of journalists but it really goes to the credit of the PTI government for taking the first but historic practical step towards that end.
President Arif Alvi gave his assent to the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Bill 2021 at a ceremony on Wednesday attended by the cabinet members and a large number of working journalists.
The document prepared in consultation with the relevant stakeholders indeed is a comprehensive one as it focuses on protecting life of journalists, saving them from harassment and torture and ensuring their welfare by giving them facilities of life and health insurance.
The act also defines the media professionals and most importantly, the act envisages establishment of an independent commission comprising representation from all media groups in order to address the grievances and complaints of the media persons. Over the years, the media has really emerged as an important fourth pillar of the state and a strong media is also important for the promotion of democracy and democratic norms in the country.
Our journalists have also proved that they are second to none and performed duties in the most difficult situations.
This piece of legislation was a need of the hour. We understand that this will help them better perform their duties in the most professional and responsible manner.
Whilst PTI government will always be remembered for this initiative, it is also important that there should not be any delay in its implementation. Often laws are passed in our country but their implementation has always remained an issue but this practice should come to an end now.
The proposed commission should immediately be constituted so that the working journalists can really feel the change. There is always room for improvement and this piece of legislation is no exception.
Hence the positive suggestions should be welcomed and incorporated in it for the betterment of the journalists. The provincial governments must also come up with their laws for the protection of rights of working journalists.
