On World Press Freedom Day, prominent activist from Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), Amjad Ayub Mirza, raised serious concerns over media censorship in the regions of Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB) and PoJK. Speaking at a virtual event organized by international press freedom groups, Mirza detailed the systematic suppression of journalistic voices and the curtailment of fundamental rights in these territories.
Systematic Suppression of Media
Mirza, who has been a vocal critic of the Pakistani administration's policies in the occupied regions, accused authorities of imposing stringent controls on local media outlets. He stated that journalists in PoGB and PoJK face constant threats, intimidation, and arbitrary arrests for reporting on issues such as human rights abuses, economic exploitation, and political dissent. The activist emphasized that the media landscape is heavily censored, with newsrooms often forced to self-censor to avoid repercussions.
Impact on Regional Journalism
The activist highlighted several instances where newspapers and television channels were shut down or had their licenses revoked for publishing content deemed unfavorable by the military and intelligence agencies. He noted that digital platforms are not spared either, with widespread blocking of websites and social media accounts that carry critical narratives. This has created an environment of fear, stifling independent journalism and denying the local population access to unbiased information.
Mirza called upon the international community, particularly the United Nations and press freedom organizations, to intervene and pressure Pakistan to uphold its obligations under international law. He argued that the media censorship in PoGB and PoJK is a violation of Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which guarantees freedom of opinion and expression.
Broader Context of Human Rights
The activist linked the media crackdown to broader human rights violations in the region, including enforced disappearances, torture, and suppression of political movements. He urged global media to shed light on the plight of journalists in these areas and support their struggle for press freedom. The event concluded with a resolution calling for an independent inquiry into the state of media freedom in PoGB and PoJK, and for the immediate release of all journalists detained for exercising their profession.
