Balochistan Digital Media Policy 2026 Rejected, National Party Raises Strong Concerns
Quetta: The central spokesperson of the National Party has strongly rejected the Balochistan government’s proposed Digital Media Policy 2026, terming it against local journalism, freedom of expression, and public interest.
In a statement issued here, the spokesperson said that the policy poses a serious threat to the existence of local newspapers and journals in the province and could lead to large-scale unemployment among journalists.
He stated that despite limited resources, local newspapers in Balochistan have long played a vital role in highlighting public issues, government performance, and regional deprivation.
The statement warned that the implementation of this policy could result in the closure of local print media outlets, leaving thousands of journalists and media workers facing severe financial hardship.
The spokesperson further said that internet services in most districts of Balochistan are either highly limited or completely unavailable, making it unrealistic to consider digital media a substitute for print media. He added that people still rely heavily on local newspapers for official announcements, job advertisements, and essential public information.
He alleged that the policy was formulated without broad consultation and appears designed to benefit certain vested interests, while weakening smaller media houses and promoting large media groups.
The National Party has demanded the immediate withdrawal of the controversial policy and called for the formulation of a balanced and comprehensive media policy in consultation with journalist organizations, newspaper owners, civil society, and political parties to ensure freedom of press and protection of journalists’ rights.
