IN a democracy, the media serves as a guardian of public discourse, where the voices of all — especially the marginalised — find their echo. It is troubling to note how the state-owned Pakistan Television continues to censor some voices.

Most recently, it refused to air speeches by lawmakers Omar Ayub, Mahmood Khan Achakzai, Akhtar Mengal and Asad Qaiser during a National Assembly session. Instances of such blackouts by PTV are rife.

In 2017, opposition members boycotted the budget session after PTV refused to telecast live the speech of then-opposition leader Khursheed Shah. In 2019, opposition parties accused then-PM Imran Khan of coercing broadcasters into blocking coverage of his critics. Channels were taken off air, and opposition events went unreported, an action PML-N’s Maryam Nawaz branded as Pakistan facing its “worst censorship”.

Similarly, then-chairman Naeem Bukhari’s admission in 2020 that PTV would exclusively represent the government’s stance stands in stark contrast with its stated vision of beaming content that is “objective” and “inclusive”. Such bias in favour of the ruling party deprives the public of a holistic understanding of national affairs, breeding an environment of misinformation and disengagement.

A democratic society thrives on diverse viewpoints and robust debate, where state media serves the public interest by ensuring balanced coverage of all political perspectives. It is imperative for the integrity of Pakistan’s democracy that PTV and other state-controlled media outlets remain impartial, providing equal platforms for all political entities. Regulatory frameworks should be revisited to safeguard against undue influence, particularly from the government, ensuring the media’s role as the fourth pillar of democracy is not compromised.

The new government, led by the PML-N, would do well to remember that not so long ago they were the ‘pariahs’ that were being censored. They are now in a position to stop this ugly practice. This muzzling of ‘other’ voices only adds to the public’s discontent and disillusionment.

Published in Dawn, March 6th, 2024