'Editors for Safety' condemns attacks, demands maximum security

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 4 March 2016

The Editors for Safety organization has expressed grave concern over recent attacks on journalists by religious groups in Pakistan. Following protests after Mumtaz Qadri's funeral, they are demanding increased security for media teams and accountability for the perpetrators.

Summary

ISLAMABAD - The Editors for Safety organization says it is seriously concerned over Friday's attacks on journalists and television crews by some religious groups.

The organization that comprises Pakistani newspaper editors and heads of television channels was formed in December last year. It works for safety and security of journalists.

There were protest rallies following Friday's prayers in several cities. Protesters angry over blackout of coverage by news organizations of Mumtaz Qadri's funeral attacked a television station in Karachi and the Hyderabad Press Club.  Some journalists were also manhandled.

Editors for Safety chairman , while condemning these attacks, said neither the government nor the protesters can force any news outlet to shape the news coverage of any event in accordance with their wishes.

The organization has called upon the federal minister for interior and the provincial governments to provide maximum security to media teams and media houses, and to take action against those responsible for these attacks.

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'Editors for Safety' aims to safeguard media

KEY POINTS:

• Editors for Safety condemns attacks on journalists and media crews.
• Protesters targeted television stations due to perceived biased coverage.
• The organization calls for maximum security from the federal and provincial governments.
• Chairman emphasizes that no external pressure should dictate news coverage.
• Protests occurred in multiple cities following Friday prayers.