ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): During an appearance on the talk show Red Line With Talat hosted by senior journalist Talat Hussain, guest Shafi Jan made allegations regarding Pakhtun Digital and alleged that they are operating with a specific agenda.
During the discussion, Talat Hussain repeatedly asked the guest to provide evidence in support of the allegation and sought clarification regarding the basis of the claim.
Senior journalist Talat Hussain questioned a claim made by a PTI leader during an appearance on the talk show Red Line With Talat, asking for evidence to support remarks regarding so-called “Kaalay channels”.
According to the exchange described during the programme, no supporting evidence was presented on air to substantiate the allegation.
CM KP Sohail Afridi faces criticism over recent orders to curb press freedom
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has come under criticism after he instructed government officials to take immediate legal action against journalists and organizations who criticize the government.
In a move against freedom of expression and journalistic rights, the provincial government has decided that legal action will be taken against those who criticise the government, point out alleged corruption, or commit any kind of character assassination.
Sohail Afridi, during the meeting of the provincial cabinet today, ordered all government departments and administrative officers to initiate legal proceedings within three days against any journalist, media outlet, or citizen who levels ‘allegations’ of corruption or misconduct without what the government terms ‘solid evidence’.
Under this decision, written instructions have been issued to all government departments and administrative officers on an emergency basis.
The Chief Minister has warned the bureaucrats and secretaries of the government department that if action is not taken within the stipulated time, he himself will take strict action against the concerned authorities and negligent officers.
According to the government, legitimate criticism and raising questions are the democratic right of every citizen, but the government’s reputation will not be allowed to be damaged under the guise of false propaganda and baseless allegations.
On the other hand, analysts argue that the short deadline of 3 days and the pressure on officials are actually aimed at suppressing news of corruption and harassing the media.
Critics say that this move will lead to government officials resorting to retaliatory actions against journalists to hide their incompetence, which will completely close the path of investigative journalism in the province.
