JournalismPakistan.com | Published April 10, 2018
Join our WhatsApp channelA mob shouted slogans and set off firecrackers at the main gate of the Sirasa TV in Colombo, Sri Lanka on April 4 in protest against the channel’s coverage of the no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe which was defeated in the parliament.
The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) joined its affiliate the Free Media Movement (FMM), Sri Lanka in condemning the act of intimidation by the mob opposing Sirasa TV, and urged an immediate inquiry into the incident to take action against those responsible.
The mob gathered at the main gate of the office complex of MTV Channel after the no-confidence motion was defeated, and shouted slogans, setting off firecrackers for about an hour. MTV Channel, a private media company, owns three national television channels including Sirasa TV. As a result of the mob gathered at the main gate, the media staff was unable to exit the office complex. The police later dispersed the mob.
C Dodawatta, an FMM convener, said: “While it is true that media is often criticized for the manner in which they conduct their reporting, it does not mean that those who are critical of those methods of reporting can take the law into their own hands and act in an intimidating manner.”
The FMM further added: “Any concerns about the manner of reporting should be resolved within the framework of media ethics. Actions such as those carried out against Sirasa will not stop there. Past events have shown us how criminal acts and mob behavior have broken down the framework of democracy.”
The IFJ said: “The IFJ condemns the attempts to intimidate Sirasa TV for its coverage. For democracy to flourish, there should be space in the public sphere for different views and opinions on important issues, and acts of intimidation not only shrink the space but also threaten the independence of the media. The IFJ urges the Sri Lankan authorities to investigate the issue, and ensure appropriate legal action against those responsible.” – IFJ media release
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.