ISLAMABAD:
A joint delegation comprising representatives of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), Rawalpindi-Islamabad Union of Journalists (RIUJ), and the National Press Club (NPC) called on Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar on Wednesday to discuss issues facing the journalist community.
The delegation included PFUJ President Afzal Butt, former Secretary-General Mazhar Abbas, former President Shehzada Zulfiqar, National Press Club Secretary Nayyar Ali, and RIUJ General Secretary Asif Bashir Chaudhry.
During the meeting, the participants discussed the establishment of the Journalists Protection Commission, the illegal termination of media workers, and other matters concerning the welfare and rights of journalists.
Minister Attaullah Tarar informed the delegation that the formation of the Journalists Protection Commission was in its final stages and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safeguarding journalists’ rights and professional independence.
Expressing concern over the recent wave of media layoffs, the Minister said the government had cleared historic outstanding dues to media houses, yet the terminations remained unjustified. “This issue will be formally raised with media owners,” he asserted.
He further announced that the health insurance scheme for journalists would be expanded and made more effective, ensuring better coverage and implementation. Tarar reaffirmed that the government remains steadfast in promoting press freedom and ensuring the economic security of media professionals.
The Minister also assured the delegation that the government would implement the charter of demands related to the recent incident at the National Press Club, reaffirming that addressing journalists’ issues remains a top priority.
The delegation thanked the Federal Minister for his commitment and assurance to resolve the long-standing concerns of journalists.
Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Information Ashfaq Khalil and Principal Information Officer Mubashir Hassan were also present during the meeting.
