Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar has called on the Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA) to create a dedicated welfare fund for journalists and a compensation package for those who die in the line of duty.
The minister made these remarks in a post on the social media platform X on Thursday, November 5, 2026. The statement followed Tarar's visit to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) to check on the health of Muhammad Aslam Khokhar, a journalist currently receiving treatment at the hospital.
Tarar stated that television channels receive advertisements from both the government and the private sector and generate revenue through digital platforms, yet no dedicated fund for journalist welfare exists and no compensation package has been prepared for those who die while performing professional duties.
“This cannot continue like this,” Tarar said, urging the PBA to develop a comprehensive mechanism for the financial protection and welfare of journalists.
During his visit to the hospital, Tarar assured that no journalist would be left alone during difficult times and stated he stands with the journalist community to address its problems and difficulties.
While at PIMS, the minister met with treating doctors to get details on Khokhar's health and ongoing treatment. He also handed over an employment letter to Khokhar and offered his best wishes for his recovery.
