LAHORE:Punjab Chief Minister(CM),Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Monday said that the Punjab government was committed to protecting journalists’ rights and freedom of the press,describing them as the eyes and ears of society and champions of truth.
In her message on the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists,she said that journalists who raised their voices for truth and justice must be protected and enabled to perform their professional duties without fear.
She said threats,violence and harassment against journalists were unacceptable and those involved in crimes against media professionals must be brought to justice.
The CM said freedom of the press and freedom of expression were essential for a democratic society while free and responsible journalism played a vital role in strengthening democratic institutions.
She said journalists exposing injustice,oppression and falsehood served society by highlighting public issues and giving voice to the people.
Any attempt to silence the truth was an attack on fundamental rights.
CM Maryam Nawaz said that the Punjab government fully supported press freedom and the protection of journalists’ professional rights and dignity.
She also expressed her resolve to help homeless journalists realize their dream of owning a home.
CM maintained that journalists in Punjab were safe and said her government would continue to ensure an environment in which they could work freely and securely.