Punjab Union of Journalists condemns PCB ban on senior reporters

The Punjab Union of Journalists (PUJ) has strongly condemned the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) decision to impose restrictions on senior reporters and media representatives Sanaullah Khan and Qadir Khawaja, calling it an unconstitutional and undemocratic assault on press freedom. In an official statement, PUJ General Secretary Qammar Zaman Bhatti declared the ban as “a direct attack on the freedom of expression and independence of the press.” He noted that targeting senior reporters was not only “deeply regrettable” but also contrary to the spirit of Pakistan’s Constitution and democratic values. “Journalists cannot be barred from performing their professional duties. Their responsibility is to bring the truth to the people. Silencing them is tantamount to denying the public’s right to know,” Bhatti said. He added that PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s directive undermines free speech and represents an authoritarian approach. “Press freedom is the backbone of democracy. Any attempt to curb it threatens the very existence of democratic governance,” he stressed. The PUJ vowed to stand firmly with journalists Sanaullah Khan and Qadir Khawaja and safeguard their rights, urging the government and relevant authorities to take immediate notice of what it called a “non-democratic and unconstitutional order” and ensure its withdrawal. The statement further warned that if restrictions on reporters were not lifted, PUJ would reserve the right to launch a nationwide protest movement. “The decision to ban senior reporters is unacceptable and a failed attempt to suppress journalism. We will make every sacrifice to protect press freedom,” the release concluded.