True journalism

Author: Lokesh Vishwakarma

Sir: First of all, my salute to Mr Salmaan Taseer for his true sacrifice for the sake of humanity, and my appreciation for Daily Times and its great contribution to true journalism in Pakistan.

It is unfortunate that the mainstream media of Pakistan, which is mostly owned, controlled and dominated by a few families, is serving the interests of right wing religious extremists and their political allies. It has set the precedent of preconceived and pasteurised journalism in Pakistan in order to brainwash and mislead the masses. They have not only achieved, but have also managed to mislead the world in the name of independence and freedom of speech.

Since I like your newspaper because of its true and moderate voice, I want to see it growing, competing and setting the example of true journalism in Pakistan.

However, the politically associated mainstream Urdu newspaper industry in Pakistan is in serious need of a change. We need new Urdu newspapers that can meet the needs and demands of modern day journalism. They should also be capable of serving our masses as an educator and guide through the true spirit of journalism and appealing insights. I believe the most important need of the hour is to counter and stop the misleading propaganda of right wing extremists. This is only possible when all moderate/democratic and likeminded forces work together and decide to reach out to the masses at the grassroots level. This is the only key to success in order to defeat the well organised, funded and deeply rooted forces of religious extremism.

SYED A ZAFAR

Chicago, USA