'Disgusting and unethical': Express News journalist reports live from Edhi grave

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 9 July 2016

An Express News journalist reported live from the grave of philanthropist Abdul Sattar Edhi, leading to widespread criticism. The channel later apologized for this unethical act.

Summary

ISLAMABAD - In an act seen as disgusting, ridiculous and unethical, a reporter of Express News Television reported live from inside the grave of renowned philanthropist, social activist and humanitarian Abdul Sattar Edhi.

This bizarre piece of journalism aired early Sunday drew immense criticism on social media before the channel's Executive Director News apologized.

"Last night at 3.45am a clip was aired once on Express News in which one of our reporters was lying inside the grave prepared for Edhi sb," said Fahd Husain on Twitter. "The clip was pulled off air as soon as it was brought to the notice of the editorial management."

He admitted "the clip violated all social & journalistic ethics & should not have gone on air. We are taking action against those responsible.....we apologise to our viewers for hurting their sentiments and assure them of our commitment to the highest standards of journalism," he said.

Edhi, 88, died in Karachi on Saturday following a kidney ailment.

The erring reporter actually lay inside the grave with his mike and reported live - an act that many believed was a bid win ratings.

KEY POINTS:

• Reporter lay inside Edhi's grave during live broadcast
• Received significant backlash on social media
• Executive Director Fahd Husain acknowledged the violation of ethics
• Clip was removed once highlighted to management
• Channel pledged commitment to high journalism standards