ISLAMABAD: A Senate Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting meeting, chaired by Senator Sarmad Ali, called for enhanced protections for media workers, increased support for print media, and accountability from the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA). The committee reviewed media policy, welfare of media workers, and the functioning of public sector media organizations.

According to Senate of Pakistan, the committee expressed concern over discrepancies in data presented by the NCCIA regarding social media accounts. The NCCIA had disowned figures shared during an earlier subcommittee meeting. The committee directed NCCIA to clarify these figures and submit verified data. The Information Minister informed that the government revised its advertisement policy in 2024, introducing guidelines for transparent distribution, with electronic media receiving the largest share.

Senator Syed Waqar Mehdi supported a proposal for a financial package for families of deceased media workers, suggesting a fixed compensation amount. The committee recommended withholding government advertisements from media organizations that fail to pay salaries on time and urged registration with the Employees’ Old-Age Benefits Institution and mandatory life insurance for media workers. The committee emphasized the need to support print media and counter fake news on social media.

Senator Pervaiz Rasheed raised concerns about the film “Buleha” associating a revered Sufi saint with violent content, prompting the committee to summon the Central Board of Film Censors. The committee was informed of Pakistan Television’s financial self-sufficiency and its exclusive rights to broadcast the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Recommendations were made for revising rental rates for Radio Pakistan’s Karachi office and utilizing vacant PTV building spaces. The committee addressed PTV Colony residents’ concerns and urged coordination with the Capital Development Authority. The NCCIA was directed to ensure no action against newspapers or journalists, with a report requested on case transfers from provinces.