JournalismPakistan.com | Published November 07, 2016
Join our WhatsApp channel
LAHORE - The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) said Monday a smear campaign against author and analyst Dr Ayesha Siddiqa on electronic and social media is a disgraceful spectacle at odds with the values of a democratic and tolerant society.
In a statement the Commission said the character assassination that Dr Siddiqa has had to endure at the hands of the media, especially social media, since her recent participation in a conference in Afghanistan, was outrageous.
“The campaign branding Dr Siddiqa a traitor is a reflection on the media entities involved as well as the general climate in which those professing monopoly over patriotism hasten to brand anyone a traitor who dares to expose shortcomings in Pakistan’s policies.
“Granted that Pakistan is in difficult straits and finding itself challenged on many fronts, but that should not be an invitation to abandon tolerance, decency or deny citizens freedom of expression and thought. Why is it so difficult to imagine that citizens outside the official quarters can also think of and suggest ways towards solving Pakistan’s problems?
“We sympathize with Dr Siddiqa and all those who are at the receiving end of this madness, but we are more concerned that the pervasive climate of intolerance and paranoia will stifle the voices of human rights and reason, robbing the nation of valuable advice on making proper choices.
“The authorities who have been overly concerned of late regarding the use of the cyber space should take notice. Public condemnation of such vilification tactics is also vital to challenge this assault on reason and freedom of expression.”
April 30, 2025: Freedom of expression in Pakistan is under threat, as the 2025 Freedom Network report reveals increased arrests, censorship, and legal restrictions following amendments to PECA, posing serious risks to journalists and democratic values.
April 30, 2025: Dawn has criticized the Indian media's calls for war and condemned the banning of 16 Pakistani YouTube channels, urging a rational response after the Pahalgam attack that left 26 dead.
April 28, 2025: India has banned 16 Pakistani YouTube channels, including major news outlets and individual journalists, following the deadly Pahalgam attack. Tensions escalate as Islamabad demands a neutral probe.
April 23, 2025: Pakistani journalists respond in unison to a post hinting at a possible Indian military strike. Citing the 2019 ‘Swift Retort,’ they warn of a stronger response if provoked again.
April 21, 2025: After being expelled from PTI, MNA Sher Afzal Marwat launches personal attacks on journalists and Aleema Khan, sparking outrage on social media over his offensive remarks.
April 21, 2025: Journalist Sanaullah Khan reveals that the FIA has launched a financial crackdown on YouTubers by freezing the bank accounts of journalists and their family members—raising serious concerns over freedom of expression and legal process.
April 20, 2025: Dr. Nauman Niaz launched his fifteenth book, In A Different Realm: Story of Quadruple and Triple Centuries 1876–2025, at an elegant Islamabad event, reflecting on cricket’s rarest feats and his journey as a scholar of the game.
April 11, 2025: Sindhi journalist AD Shar was brutally murdered in Khairpur, Sindh. His body was found dumped on Handiyari Link Road. PFUJ has declared a three-day mourning period and demanded justice.
April 23, 2025 Discover Dr. Nauman Niaz’s In A Different Realm: Story of Quadruple & Triple Centuries 1876–2025, a profound exploration of cricket's most monumental innings, blending historical analysis with poetic narrative.
April 22, 2025 Once a beacon of hope for Pakistan's cricket revival, the Pakistan Super League now grapples with stagnation and moral compromises. Can this cultural symbol reclaim its lost soul?
April 21, 2025 An Italian newspaper, Il Foglio, successfully published a month-long AI-written insert and praised its irony and analytical abilities, while affirming that AI will complement—not replace—quality journalism.
April 03, 2025 The International Press Institute (IPI) and International Media Support (IMS) invite nominations for the 2025 World Press Freedom Hero and Free Media Pioneer Awards. Recognizing courageous journalists and innovative media, the awards will be presented at IPI’s 75th-anniversary World Congress in Vienna. Submit your nominations by April 30, 2025.
April 01, 2025 Photojournalist Suresh Rajak was burned alive while covering a violent protest in Kathmandu. The IFJ and its affiliates condemn the attack and call for an urgent investigation to hold the perpetrators accountable.