ISLAMABAD, June 4: The Supreme Court on Monday stressed the need for protecting the life and property of journalists, observing that an independent media was necessary for national security, solidarity and strengthening of institutions in the country.

“The courts have always ruled for the freedom of press in the past and shall continue to take steps for ensuring security and protection of journalists,” observed Justice Javed Iqbal while hearing complaints of harassment and intimidation of journalists.

A bench comprising Justice Javed Iqbal, Justice Abdul Hameed Dogar and Justice Falak Sher had initiated suo motu notice on the request of the Press Association of the Supreme Court, which was converted into a petition by Justice Javed Iqbal as the acting Chief Justice.

Advocate Ahmer Bilal Sufi appeared on behalf of the journalists and cited different incidents of violence and harassment against working journalists. Pakistan was at No.157 in the international ranking on freedom of the press out of 168 nations, he deplored.

He said the rating could not be improved unless security and protection of journalists was ensured.

Advocate Sufi said 66 cases of murder, abduction, assault and harassment of journalists had been reported during the past six months.

Justice Iqbal observed that only fair and objective journalism would constitute the fourth pillar of the state and there should be no place for yellow journalism.

Advocate Sufi said responsible journalists exercised self-censorship and lived up to the international code of conduct.

Justice Iqbal recalled that some petitions on similar issues were pending in the Sindh High Court or the Lahore High Court and observed that it would be proper if the grievances were agitated before the high courts.

The bench asked the counsel to confirm pendency of such cases in high courts and adjourned the matter for next week.