Violence Against Journalists Must End, Says Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz

**Lahore (Qudrat Daily)** – Punjab Chief Minister **Maryam Nawaz Sharif** has called for an immediate end to violence and persecution against journalists who raise their voices for truth and justice.

In her message on the **International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists**, Maryam Nawaz said that **freedom of the press, exercised with responsibility, is the foundation of democracy**, and a strong democratic society requires a free and independent media.

She described journalists as **guardians of social justice and the voice of the people**, adding that those who expose oppression, injustice, and falsehood are the real heroes. “As Chief Minister, I stand as a guarantor of press freedom in Punjab,” she affirmed.

Maryam Nawaz stated that the provincial government is taking **multiple initiatives to safeguard journalists’ rights**, including efforts to fulfill the dream of providing homes for homeless journalists. “We stand with journalists who pursue truth and integrity, and we will continue to protect their rights,” she added.

Highlighting the significance of the day, the Chief Minister said it serves as a reminder of journalists who have been **killed or suffered hardships** in the line of duty. She asserted that **Punjab remains a safe province for journalists and journalism**, adding that, by the grace of God, **no incidents of killing or torture of journalists have occurred — nor will they be allowed to happen**.