Karachi: Several leading media organizations have strongly criticized the government’s sudden restriction on advertisements for Dawn Media Group’s TV and radio outlets. The ban follows an earlier curtailment of government ads to Dawn’s flagship newspaper. Media bodies have called on authorities to immediately revoke the move, calling it a direct attack on press freedom.
CPNE, APNS Speak Out Against Ban
The Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE) described Dawn Media Group as one of the country’s most respected news organizations. In a statement attributed to its president and secretary-general, CPNE said stopping government ads effectively cripples the media group financially. It highlighted Dawn’s history of providing unbiased reporting since Pakistan’s independence.
The All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS) also condemned the decision. The organization described the ban as “unjust” and “an attack on freedom of expression.” APNS noted that Dawn’s newspaper had already suffered from curtailment of government advertising over the past 13 months. Now, the news channel and radio station have also been targeted.
APNS stated that government ads, funded by public money, should not be used to force media outlets to change editorial policies. It expressed solidarity with Dawn Media Group and urged both federal and provincial authorities to review the decision and restore government advertising.
Broadcasting Bodies and Journalist Unions Denounce Restriction
The Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA) criticized the ban, calling the move a misuse of advertising to control media. The PBA emphasized the crucial role of traditional media in countering fake news and misinformation. It urged the government to lift the restriction immediately to protect free and responsible journalism.
The Joint Action Committee (JAC), comprising representatives from major journalist bodies including the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists, APNS, CPNE, Association of Electronic Media Editors and News Directors, and PBA, also condemned the measure. JAC called the move “undemocratic” and noted that Dawn Media Group has been repeatedly targeted due to its independent editorial stance.
The JAC demanded the immediate restoration of government advertising to Dawn’s newspaper, TV, and radio platforms. Media bodies warned that continued restrictions could weaken independent journalism and restrict public access to credible news sources.
