LAHORE (Dunya News) - Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari has stressed the need to curb fake news, saying that the spread of false information on social media has become a serious concern and that damaging someone's reputation should not be considered journalism.
Speaking to office-bearers of the Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE), Bokhari said abusive language and baseless allegations are becoming increasingly common on social media.
She emphasized that anyone making allegations should be required to provide evidence to support their claims.
Bokhari also alleged that some YouTubers living abroad are engaged in propaganda against Pakistan, adding that no one should be allowed to promote narratives that are harmful to the country's interests.
She described journalism as a highly responsible profession and said the government is taking steps to improve the welfare of journalists.
Highlighting the provincial government's education initiatives, Bokhari said Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has distributed scholarships and laptops to students.
She added that students from Balochistan have also been included in the scholarship and laptop program.
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The information minister urged the public not to glorify individuals who make unsubstantiated allegations on social media.
Speaking on the occasion, CPNE President Kazim Khan said the organization fully respects the government's viewpoint.
He noted that CPNE is the only media body in Pakistan that has developed a policy to address fake news.
Kazim Khan added that CPNE has also established a Press Freedom Committee and stressed that no one has the right to spread misinformation without evidence.