PUJ welcomes formation of Commission for Protection of Journalists

LAHORE (RNN TV) — The Punjab Union of Journalists (PUJ) on Saturday expressed satisfaction over the federal government’s decision to establish the “Commission for Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals,” terming it an important step toward ensuring the safety and security of media workers across the country.

In a statement, PUJ President Naeem Hanif, General Secretary Qamaruz Zaman Bhatti, Senior Vice President Yousaf Raza Abbasi, Vice President Nadeem Zaeem, Joint Secretary Mudassar Hussain Tatla, Treasurer Naseem Qureshi and members of the Executive Council said the government deserved appreciation for notifying the 12-member commission mandated to safeguard journalists from threats, coercion and retaliatory actions.

Mr Hanif congratulated the newly appointed members, including PFUJ President Afzal Butt, NPC Secretary Nayar Ali, Nawaz Raza, Hassan Abbas, Parliamentary Reporters Association’s Naveed Akbar Chaudhry, PUJ representative Tamsila Chishti, KUJ President Tahir Hassan Khan, Khyber Union of Journalists’ Nadia Saboohi, Balochistan Union of Journalists’ President Khaleel Khan and Press Association of Supreme Court Secretary Ghulam Nabi Yousafzai. He also welcomed the members nominated by the Ministry of Information and the Ministry of Human Rights.

He said the PUJ hoped the commission would play an effective role in addressing threats faced by journalists and strengthening mechanisms for their protection.

PUJ General Secretary Qamaruz Zaman Bhatti also felicitated all commission members, particularly PUJ representative Tamsila Chishti. He said the commission was expected to soon establish its offices in Islamabad and all four provincial headquarters to provide journalists better access and a sense of security.