Islamabad: Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the protection and welfare of journalists. During a meeting with a delegation from the Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE) in Islamabad, the minister emphasized the importance of safeguarding journalistic integrity and welfare.

According to Radio Pakistan, the meeting addressed several critical issues, including the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), the deregistration of irregularly published newspapers, and other pertinent topics. Minister Tarar highlighted the government’s openness to dialogue with journalistic organizations regarding the PECA Act, expressing a willingness to consider suggestions for its improvement. He stated that the PECA Act aims to hold accountable those misusing journalism while protecting reputable journalists.

The minister further clarified that any misunderstandings regarding the PECA Act would be addressed, and he announced that the Journalists Protection Commission would soon begin its operations. Additionally, he pledged that payments to the print media would be settled within the year.

Attaullah Tarar commended the Pakistani media for its role during the recent tensions between Pakistan and India, praising its mature handling of information dissemination and its efforts in dispelling rumors. He expressed appreciation for the media’s demonstration of national solidarity during challenging times.

The CPNE delegation expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Pakistan Army’s Public Relations Department (ISPR) for ensuring timely information flow during the Indo-Pak tension. They also put forward suggestions aimed at enhancing journalists’ protection, access to information, and the overall professional environment in journalism.

Minister Tarar assured the delegation of the government’s full cooperation in addressing journalists’ issues and announced the formation of a joint working group with media representatives to tackle these concerns effectively.