NewsOne TV hit by layoffs and unpaid wages, channel remains on air

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published last month |  JP Staff Report

NewsOne TV remains operational, but staff report widespread layoffs and delayed salaries, deepening concerns over Pakistan’s unstable media industry and deteriorating working conditions.

Summary

ISLAMABAD — Contrary to earlier reports of a complete shutdown, NewsOne TV remains on air but is facing serious internal turmoil, including mass layoffs and delayed staff salaries.

A senior staff member confirmed to JournalismPakistan.com that while the station continues to broadcast, uncertainty and frustration have gripped employees. “As of today, the channel is operational, as are our other channels, TVOne and Waseeb, but there are issues of layoffs and payments,” he said, requesting anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter.

"There has been a gradual downsizing at all three centres — Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. We tried to manage things for the past three months, but now there are plans to lay off more staff," he added.

Reports also indicate that Islamabad Bureau Chief Kashif Rafiq has resigned after allegedly being asked to enforce staff layoffs, a request he reportedly refused.

The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (Workers) (PFUJ-W) condemned the reported layoffs, saying the treatment of media workers at NewsOne reflects a growing pattern of exploitation and neglect across Pakistan’s media sector. “It is unacceptable that journalists and staff who have served their organizations loyally are being discarded without fair compensation or timely salaries,” the union said.

The crisis at News One highlights the financial and structural instability of Pakistan’s broadcast industry. Over the past decade, several channels, including Waqt News, Business Plus, Indus News (English), Express 24/7 (English), and AAP News, have either downsized or shut down, leaving hundreds jobless and prompting protests by journalist unions. Industry insiders warn that more outlets could face similar struggles unless reforms are introduced to protect journalists and ensure financial transparency.

Across Pakistan, media workers continue to face insecurity, delayed salaries, and abrupt dismissals, symptoms of a broader crisis with no immediate resolution. The situation at NewsOne underscores that even operational channels remain vulnerable in a system that has yet to safeguard the rights and welfare of media professionals.

Photo: Image is representational and does not depict actual News One TV staff or premises.