Federal Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal has announced the launch of the “Saud Sahir Award.” The initiative is designed to recognize the services of senior journalist Syed Saud Sahir while providing an incentive for young journalists to produce high-quality reporting.
Speaking at a condolence reference held at the National Press Club Islamabad on November 5, Ahsan Iqbal described Saud Sahir’s journalistic services as unforgettable. He stated that the late journalist spent his life upholding principles of truth, honesty, and professional responsibility. According to the Minister, Saud Sahir’s work went beyond simple news reporting to highlight national issues, democracy, freedom of expression, and public problems.
Ahsan Iqbal emphasized that responsible journalism based on facts is necessary for the country's betterment and the promotion of democratic values. He warned journalists to avoid fake news, noting that while social media and modern technology allow information to spread quickly, they have also increased the challenge of unverified information. He argued that maintaining public trust requires strict adherence to professional ethics and the verification of facts.
The Minister noted that while differences of opinion are a part of democracy, they should not be used as a source for misleading information or character assassination. He stated that the “Saud Sahir Award” will foster healthy competition and attract young reporters toward investigative and public-interest journalism.
The event was organized by the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) and the Rawalpindi-Islamabad Union of Journalists (RIUJ) Dastoor. Attendees included Jamaat-e-Islami Naib Amir Liaquat Baloch, Dr. Jamal Nasir, National Press Club President Abdul Razaq Sial, and several senior journalists. Saud Sahir’s son and granddaughters were also in attendance.
Speakers at the reference paid tribute to Saud Sahir’s bold position on national issues, describing his services as a guiding light. They urged the new generation to prioritize research, impartiality, and truth. The gathering concluded with prayers for the deceased and a vow by participants to continue his traditions of principled journalism.
