Quetta: The Balochistan Media Action Committee has strongly rejected the provincial government’s proposed digital media policy, calling for immediate stakeholder consultation before any implementation.
The decision was made during a high-level meeting held at the Quetta Press Club, chaired by senior journalist Shahzada Zulfiqar. The session brought together key representatives from media organizations, including the Balochistan Editors Council, Balochistan Union of Journalists (BUJ), and the Quetta Press Club.
Participants voiced serious concerns over reports suggesting that the policy may slash newspaper advertisement quotas by up to 80 percent. Media representatives warned that such a drastic reduction would severely damage the already fragile newspaper industry in Balochistan, which supports thousands of livelihoods. They cautioned that closures of newspapers could trigger widespread unemployment across the province.
The forum also highlighted the issue of unfair distribution of government advertisements, pointing out that a large portion is allegedly being diverted to “dummy newspapers.” Concerns were raised over the alleged backing of such outlets by certain officials within the public relations department, leading to misuse of public funds.
The committee demanded transparency in advertisement allocation and urged the government to ensure merit-based distribution to genuine publications. It emphasized that the proposed digital media policy must not be implemented without prior consultation with all stakeholders.
As part of its response strategy, the Media Action Committee announced plans to engage with provincial ministers, government representatives, and parliamentary leaders in the Balochistan Assembly to present its تحفظات. A meeting with the Chief Minister of Balochistan will also be sought to formally submit their demands.
The committee warned that failure to address these concerns could lead to a broader احتجاجی strategy, with further actions to be decided in upcoming meetings.
Meanwhile, the Balochistan Union of Journalists and Quetta Press Club raised alarm over worsening conditions for media workers. They noted that many newspapers have already laid off reporters, photographers, and sub-editors, while several publications are operating without essential editorial staff.
In response, the Editors Council assured that efforts will be made to recruit full-time staff, ensure fair salaries, and provide formal employment contracts. It also pledged to discourage part-time hiring practices and avoid employing individuals holding multiple jobs, aiming to improve professional standards in the media industry.
