Media Spotlight

 October 11, 2019:  Explore the debate around journalistic standards in Pakistani print media, focusing on an incident involving profanity and unprofessional conduct. Find out the implications for media ethics and professionalism amidst growing concerns about journalistic integrity and language.

 October 03, 2019:  Explore the challenges faced by Pakistani journalists amidst rising attacks and government scrutiny, highlighting concerns about press freedom, censorship, and the safety of media personnel in Pakistan.

 September 30, 2019:  The author reflects on Prime Minister Imran Khan's speech at the United Nations General Assembly, expressing a change in perspective towards him. The speech is praised for its clarity, factual presentation, and global relevance, contrasting it with perceived shortcomings in Indian media coverage and political responses.

 September 20, 2019:  In this reflection, the author expresses skepticism about the state of journalism in Pakistan, arguing that integrity has eroded in favor of sensationalism and profit. The writer critiques contemporary media for prioritizing revenue over truth and ethical reporting.

 September 13, 2019:  This critique delves into the shortcomings of contemporary Pakistani news channels, highlighting four major grievances: excessive repetition of news content, the degradation of the Urdu language in news delivery, the inappropriate use of foreign words and styles, and the insensitive and often absurd use of animation in serious news reporting.

 May 30, 2019:  This tribute recounts the life and impact of Jamil Akhtar, fondly known as Jamil Sahib or Daddy, a revered figure in Pakistani journalism. From his meticulous editing as the night editor at Khaleej Times to his nurturing mentorship and unwavering commitment to journalistic excellence at Dawn News, Jamil Akhtar left an indelible mark on colleagues and the industry alike.

 September 25, 2018:  This commentary critiques the state of journalism in Pakistan, highlighting the lack of formal qualifications and ethical lapses among many news anchors and journalists. Unlike professions like medicine or law, journalism in Pakistan allows individuals from diverse backgrounds to assume influential roles without rigorous training.

 January 13, 2017:  This commentary reflects on the National Press Club elections in Pakistan, criticizing the behavior of certain media personalities and the sensationalist coverage on social media platforms like Facebook. The author expresses dismay over the fawning and idolization of journalists like Hamid Mir, highlighting it as a disturbing display of sycophancy.

 December 10, 2016:  In the age of fake news, journalism faces unprecedented challenges as misinformation spreads rapidly online. Efforts are underway to verify digital content, but the ease of sharing unverified news poses significant threats to truth and accountability. Explore the impact of fake news on politics, society, and the integrity of journalism.

 June 02, 2016:  Experience the chaotic energy of a newsroom on budget day, where editors, reporters, and sub-editors work tirelessly to cover every angle of the finance minister's speech. From anticipation and fidgeting to the race against time for accurate reporting, discover the dynamics of a bustling newsroom handling one of the year's most significant events.

 May 12, 2016:  Explore the challenging journey of press freedom in Pakistan, marked by significant sacrifices and ongoing struggles. From the dark days of censorship under Zia-ul-Haq to the present challenges faced by journalists, this narrative delves into the past and present fight for media rights.

 June 22, 2015:  Explore the shifting dynamics in Pakistan's newspaper industry where owners and editors often become the news themselves. This narrative delves into the historical contrast and the blurring line between news and self-publicity. Discover how editorial integrity has evolved over the decades. Uncover the challenges faced by modern journalism in maintaining its credibility.

 November 21, 2014:  Learn about the stagnant state of crime reporting in Pakistan's newspapers, where vague, one-sided reports dominate. Uncover the lack of investigative journalism and the missed opportunities for engaging, detailed crime stories that resonate with readers.

 October 31, 2014:  Dive into the contentious world of newsroom by-lines, where the battle for credit between reporters and editors reveals the challenges of maintaining journalistic integrity. This narrative uncovers the dynamics, disputes, and criteria that determine if a story truly deserves a by-line.

 December 05, 2013:  Find out why subediting can become monotonous and learn how top newspapers make writing and reading engaging. Explore George Orwell’s six rules for good writing and understand why certain outdated practices should be avoided.

 November 16, 2013:  Explore the dynamic landscape of Pakistani media, where a wide array of stories is covered without fear of shutdowns, contrasting with the historical challenges faced by newspapers like Daily Kohistan. Understand the evolution of media freedom and the enduring issues within the industry.

 October 10, 2013:  A reflective piece on the evolving dynamics of journalism, mentorship, and the harsh realities of the modern media industry. A mentor encounters a former mentee who offers a blunt critique and a controversial path to success.

 July 31, 2013:  Explore the challenges faced by women in Pakistani journalism, where gender discrimination and harassment are rampant despite legal protections. This article highlights the systemic issues in newsrooms and the uphill battle for female journalists.

 July 11, 2013:  Learn about the challenges and experiences of working the night shift in prestigious English newspapers in Pakistan, highlighting the toll it takes on personal life and the often thankless nature of the job. Discover one journalist's journey from newsrooms to agriculture and back, reflecting on identity and survival in a competitive field.

 May 30, 2013:  Explore the contrasting worlds of 'workshop trekkies' and online mullahs in Pakistan, highlighting their prevalence and impact on media and social discourse. Understand the criticism towards workshops as mere symbolic gestures lacking practical value, and the rise of online mullahs influencing public opinion through social media.

 May 04, 2013:  A glimpse into the indispensable role of office tea boys in South Asian and Gulf newsrooms, as experienced by a veteran journalist. From their multi-faceted duties to personal anecdotes, this piece highlights their remarkable contributions and memorable stories.

 April 27, 2013:  On April 1, 1950, Dawn newspaper faced a crisis over its ownership between Dawn Trust and Pakistan Herald Ltd. The editorial “Why we change our name” attempted to clarify the situation, but the renaming to Naqeeb led to public uproar. After three tumultuous days, the original name was restored following public demand and an appeal from Fatima Jinnah.

 March 21, 2013:  An insightful piece reflecting on how technology has transformed everyday life, impacting everything from photography to news consumption. Despite the rise of digital media, traditional newspapers retain value for many due to their tangible nature and trusted credibility, especially in Pakistan.

 March 03, 2013:  A nostalgic and humorous look at the lives of journalists, filled with office antics, pranks, and unforgettable moments. From mistaken identities to mysterious disappearances, this piece captures the camaraderie and mischief in newsrooms that make journalism an unforgettable profession.

 February 26, 2013:  Every newsroom has one—the bullshitter. Larger than life and ever-opinionated, these characters seem to know it all but rarely deliver. From tales of promising young journalists to unavoidable disappointments, this piece explores the humorous yet frustrating encounters with newsroom bullshitters over the years.

 December 18, 2012:  Discover the annual tradition in newsrooms as journalists contesting press club elections make their rounds. Amid festive handshakes and promises, work halts briefly before returning to the regular hustle. Despite the speeches and pledges, discussions on improving journalists' working conditions remain absent.

 November 29, 2012:  Explore the evolution of newsrooms and how technology has transformed the traditional practices, sounds, and tools that once defined journalism. From the bustling compositing sections to the silent clicks of keyboards today, delve into what has changed and what has been lost.

 November 24, 2012:  Learn about the decline in the quality of journalism in Pakistan since the media boom of 2003. From inadequate language skills and questionable credibility to the superficial reliance on workshops and fellowships, this analysis delves into the pressing issues facing today's reporters and journalists.