By Waleed bin Mushtaq Mughal
In recent times, the Pemra Amendment Bill 2023 has become a subject of significant discussion. This bill marks the first time that a government has taken a serious step to review and update prevailing outdated legislation in the media sector.
While there are still some loopholes that need to be addressed properly, the core issues have been identified and protected under the new laws.
One of the notable aspects of the amended Pemra bill is the recognition of media workers’ rights. Matters concerning daily wages and the non-issuance of salaries have been effectively addressed.
The establishment of the Council of Complaints (CoC) within the amended Pemra bill is of great importance not only in regulating media content but also in ensuring fair treatment for journalists and media workers regarding their salaries and pending dues.
With the introduction of the CoC, journalists no longer need to file costly court cases to pursue their rightful salaries and dues from media organizations. This initiative is particularly commendable, as many media workers have long been deprived of their rightful earnings due to unscrupulous practices within the industry. The CoC serves as a practical platform for resolving such issues efficiently.
Moreover, the amended bill also holds media organizations accountable for their treatment of employees. Companies that do not legally employ their workers, denying them appointment letters, experience certificates, and press cards, will be answerable when an appeal or complaint is lodged with Pemra’s CoC.
Overall, this legislative initiative by the government is a welcomed step towards media freedom and workers’ rights. However, it is essential to ensure that the CoC treats all complaints on a fast-track system and implements the law with true intent. By doing so, it can effectively tackle discrimination and monopoly by media tycoons, ensuring a positive work environment for journalists and proper rewards for their hard work within any media organization.
The Pemra Amendment Bill 2023 represents a significant stride in the direction of media freedom and accountability. By addressing core issues and establishing mechanisms for conflict resolution, the bill paves the way for a more transparent and just media landscape.
As the discussion continues, it is crucial for all stakeholders to work together in fine-tuning the legislation to create an environment that fosters media growth and upholds the principles of fairness and freedom. Only then can we truly realize the potential of a robust and responsible media sector that serves the interests of society while safeguarding the rights of media workers.
