The Senate panel reminded the NCCIA that its actions against journalists go beyond its mandate
ISLAMABAD – The Senate Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting has directed the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) to refrain from taking tough actions against newspapers and journalists, saying such actions are beyond its legal mandate, and the committee has sought verified data on social media accounts, called for stronger protection of media workers, and government support for the print media industry.
Chaired by Senator Sarmad Ali, the committee examined issues related to media policy, welfare of journalists, public sector media organizations and functioning of NCCIA. Senators Syed Waqar Mehdi, John Muhammad and Abdul Shakoor Khan participated in the meeting while Senator Pervez Rasheed participated through video link.
The committee expressed serious concern over discrepancies in social media account data previously presented by NCCIA officials, noting that the agency later distanced itself from the data presented during an earlier subcommittee meeting. Directing the agency to clarify its position, Senator Sarmad Ali ordered the NCCIA to submit verified and updated statistics.
The committee also took note of reports that the NCCIA had issued notices to certain newspapers and columnists. Members observed that such actions do not fall within the legal mandate of the agency and may amount to harassment of journalists and media organizations. Senator Sarmad Ali directed the NCCIA to ensure that no action is taken against newspapers or their websites, saying they do not fall under the agency’s jurisdiction.
Senator Syed Waqar Mehdi reminded the committee that the NCCIA officials had earlier assured the lawmakers that the provincial police would no longer register FIRs under the Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) and that such cases would be transferred to the NCCIA. The committee directed the agency to submit a comprehensive report indicating whether provinces have referred any cases related to PECA to it.
Briefing the committee, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said the government had revised its advertising policy in 2024, introducing transparent guidelines for distribution of government advertisements. He said that electronic media continued to receive the largest share of government advertisements, followed by print and digital media, while only a limited share of advertisements were placed on social media platforms. He added that a third-party verification mechanism has been introduced to verify digital advertisements.
On the welfare of media workers, the minister said the government is making efforts to ensure timely payment of salaries and other dues by linking compliance with allotment of government advertisements. He proposed to introduce a compensation package for the families of media employees who die during service.
Senator Sarmad Ali said that it is primarily the responsibility of media organizations to compensate the families of employees who die on duty. However, Senator Syed Waqar Mehdi supported the minister’s proposal and suggested that the committee recommend a fixed financial compensation package.
Expressing concern over the growing shortages in the media industry, the committee recommended stopping government advertisements from media houses that do not pay employees on time and demanded a review of advertisement rates. It recommended compulsory registration of all media organizations with the Employees Old Age Benefit Institution (EOBI) and compulsory life insurance coverage for media workers.
The minister sought proposals from the department concerned regarding a life insurance scheme and assured the committee that the government would consider contributing to such a fund.
The committee stressed that print media needed urgent support to remain financially sustainable, Senator Sarmad Ali observed that mainstream media must be strengthened to counter fake news and misinformation circulating on social media. Senator John Muhammad highlighted the financial challenges faced by regional newspapers, especially in Balochistan, and emphasized their role in promoting the national narrative. The committee directed the ministry to formulate a comprehensive policy for the promotion and protection of regional newspapers.
The committee also discussed the recently released film. open up. Senator Pervaiz Rasheed expressed concern over the use of Sufi saint Balhe Shah’s name for a film with violent content. As the information minister said he was not in a position to comment, the committee decided to summon all the members of the Central Board of Film Censors along with the producers of the film in its next meeting. It also directed the ministry to provide the minutes of the Censor Board meeting in which the film was approved.
During the meeting, the legislators were informed that Pakistan Television (PTV) has become financially self-sufficient for the first time. The minister said that PTV is now hiring contract employees to reduce pension liabilities and disclosed that the state broadcaster has exclusive broadcasting rights for FIFA World Cup 2026 in Pakistan.
He also said that the recently recruited PTV news anchors have been appointed on merit and are contributing positively to ratings and viewership. Responding to questions about their salaries, the minister said the anchors’ remuneration details would remain confidential to protect their privacy but could be shared with the committee during the in-camera session if needed.
The committee also reviewed the financial situation of Radio Pakistan. Senator Waqar Mehdi urged the Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation (PBC) to review the rental rate of its Karachi office building, noting that eight of its 17 floors are vacant. Officials informed the legislators that tenders for the revised fare rates have been floated recently. The committee directed the PBC to submit a viable utilization plan for the vacant space and also recommended commercial use of unused portions of PTV buildings to generate additional revenue. The members further emphasized on revival of drama production in PTV.
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