LAHORE: Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to ensuring a safe working environment for journalists and protecting their rights, emphasizing the integral role of press freedom in a democratic society.

According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab, in a statement made on the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, Chief Minister Sharif highlighted the necessity of safeguarding journalists from violence and intimidation. She underscored the importance of press freedom and freedom of expression as pillars of democracy and affirmed the government’s support for those committed to the truth.

Chief Minister Sharif recognized journalists as vital to society, describing them as the “eyes and ears” and champions of truth. She called for an end to violence against media professionals and advocated for the respect of their professional dignity and rights. The chief minister reiterated the importance of free and responsible journalism in bolstering democratic institutions and condemned threats, violence, and harassment against journalists.

Highlighting the role of journalists in exposing oppression and injustice, the chief minister termed them as heroes and guardians of social justice. She expressed her intention to stand as a guarantor for the protection of press freedom and voiced her commitment to assisting homeless journalists in achieving home ownership.

Sharif assured that Punjab remains a safe region for journalists, citing the absence of violence against media professionals in the province. She concluded by affirming the Punjab government’s dedication to upholding the principles of press freedom and the protection of journalists.