RECORDER REPORT

PESHAWAR: Speakers at a discussion arranged by the Shura-e-Hamdard have urged the government to evolve an integrated media policy framework which should focus on social responsibility.

Shura-e-Hamdard of the Hamdard Foundation conducts a monthly discussion that spotlights various issues with an effort to facilitate the people to suggest solutions as well.

This month’s topic was “Basic national issues and priorities of the media”. Professor Dr Tauqeer Alam, Chairman, Department of Political Science, Islamia College University, was the keynote speaker on the occasion.

A noted cultural activist and chairman of the Shura-e-Hamdard, Dr Salahuddin, presided over the session.

The members of the Shura and the guests raised questions, which encompassed the topic.

Professor Dr Tauqeer Alam said any policy that went against national interest could not be called lawful.

The main speaker, who himself remained part of the media almost 25 years ago before joining the Higher Education Department, said every newspaper and electronic media channel should keep into account the national interest.

Those present at the discussion believed that Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) could not keep all the media outlets within journalistic norms with its half-hearted efforts.

The discussants said that there were areas where lawmaking was urgently required. They said that the good intent of the government would play an important role towards that end.