Bugti pledges Balochistan govt's support to journalists

QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti said on Saturday that a free, responsible and well-informed press is essential for any democratic society, and acknowledged the role journalists play in promoting transparency and keeping citizens informed.

He made the remarks on the eve of World Press Freedom Day and said media workers in Balochistan were carrying out their professional responsibilities in highly difficult circumstances.

The chief minister paid tribute to more than 40 journalists from the province who, he said, had lost their lives while performing their duties. He described their sacrifices as unforgettable.

Bugti said the provincial government would provide full support to make the Siddiq Baloch Media Academy in Quetta fully operational so that journalists could receive modern training, pursue research opportunities and develop professional skills in line with changing media trends.

Measures for welfare and training

According to the chief minister, the government is taking practical steps to address issues faced by the journalist community in the province. He said the seed money for the Journalists Welfare Endowment Fund had been increased to help journalists and their families during difficult times.

He added that work was also under way to improve health insurance coverage, financial assistance and emergency support arrangements for media workers.

Bugti further said the first housing scheme for working journalists in Balochistan had been approved and that progress on the project was continuing. He said the government was committed to completing it on time so journalists could be provided dignified housing facilities.

Digital media policy approved

The chief minister said Balochistan’s first digital media policy had also been approved to promote digital platforms in an organised way while extending support to credible and active print media organisations.

He said print, electronic and social media would all retain their relevance and identity, and assured that no part of the media industry would be negatively affected in terms of employment.

Bugti reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to protecting press freedom and ensuring the safety, welfare and professional independence of journalists. He said such efforts were important for the development of a strong, balanced and progressive society.

The chief minister’s statement came ahead of World Press Freedom Day, with his remarks focusing on journalist safety, welfare support, training opportunities and the future of media in the province.