JournalismPakistan.com | Published March 30, 2017
Join our WhatsApp channel
The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has expressed serious concerns over the act of the regional authorities that has forced the closure of all local newspapers in the remote, mountainous Gilgit-Baltistan territory.
On March 21, all local newspapers in Gilgit-Baltistan suspended publication for an indefinite period as a protest against nonpayment of advertisement bills by the regional authorities and changes in rules which amounted to gagging the press.
The newspapers in the remote northern-most part Pakistan largely depend on government advertisements for survival. The newspapers said they would remain shut until their dues were cleared and changes introduced in the rules adversely affecting the media industry.
The newspapers closed down include Roznama K-2; Ausaf; Badshamal; Mohasib; Bedar; Himalaya Today; Daily Tarjman; Daily Cargil; Roznama Azaan; Roznama Salam; Sada-i-Gilgit; JB, Express; Siachin; Himalaya and Wateen. The jobs of more than 2000 working journalists are at risk due to this shutdown.
According to reports, the Gilgit-Baltistan Newspapers Society (GBNS) accused the regional government of using various tactics including filing cases and arresting journalists, intended to close down the media industry in the region. GBNS Secretary Ashraf Ashoor told Pakistan Today that the regional government also tried to curtail media freedom by issuing notices to media organizations with an intention to either completely control local media or close them down.
Journalists across the country are observing April 1 as a ‘Black Day’ to protest against the repressive move of the government. - IFJ media release/Image courtesy: friendlymela.com
June 11, 2025: Pakistan celebrated a narrow win over Bangladesh, but beneath the jubilation lies a deeper crisis—from sidelined veterans to a collapsing domestic structure—signaling an urgent need for cricket reform.
June 11, 2025: Journalists walked out of the post-budget press conference in Islamabad to protest the absence of a technical briefing and the government's dismissive behavior, calling it unacceptable and intolerable.
May 31, 2025: Dr. Nauman Niaz has issued a defamation notice to Shoaib Akhtar over derogatory remarks made during a recent broadcast, reigniting a longstanding media feud between the two prominent figures in Pakistan.
May 30, 2025: The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan has demanded the full repeal of PECA, citing its vague language, coercive powers, and threats to free speech and digital rights in Pakistan.
May 30, 2025: The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) has condemned the murder of journalist Syed Mohammed Shah in Jacobabad, calling for urgent justice and improved safety for media professionals in Sindh.
May 26, 2025: In Rawalpindi, police allegedly side with Jang Group to block 66 reinstated employees from resuming work despite court orders, drawing sharp criticism from unions and press freedom advocates.
May 25, 2025: PFUJ condemns the Jang Group's decision to dismiss over 80 employees in Rawalpindi, calling it an 'economic massacre.' The union warns of nationwide protests if workers are not reinstated.
May 25, 2025: Daily Jang Rawalpindi has terminated over 80 employees, including female staff, despite multiple court rulings in their favor—raising concerns over labor rights violations and misuse of authority in Pakistani media.
May 19, 2025 PJS reports 219 Palestinian journalists killed in Israeli attacks since October 7, with 30 women among the victims. Over 430 were injured and 685 family members were killed. Read more on the systematic targeting of media in Gaza.
May 15, 2025 Discover the legacy of Samiullah Khan, Pakistan’s legendary "Flying Horse," whose breathtaking speed and artistry redefined hockey. From Olympic glory to World Cup triumphs, his story is one of myth, movement, and magic.
May 04, 2025 Algerian authorities suspend Echorouk News TV for 10 days after it used a racist slur against African migrants. ANIRA demands an apology, calling it a violation of human dignity.
May 04, 2025 NCHR and MMfD launch a journalism fellowship to train reporters on digital rights & gender inclusion in Pakistan. Supported by UNESCO, this initiative aims to bridge the gender digital divide. Apply by May 15, 2025!
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.