PTI social media wing victimised innocent girl: Azma

LAHORE: Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari has said that there has been a despicable attempt to tarnish the image of innocent girls through the misuse of social media, says a press release.

“No girl is vulnerable in Pakistan, especially in Punjab,” she said this speaking to the media after appearing in the Lahore High Court. She remarked that PTI exploited the situation for political gain.

“If anyone has evidence, they should present it; we will provide full support,” she said.

Any journalist who engages in wrongdoing will face action,” Azma said and noted that certain YouTubers have attempted to misuse the name Maryam Nawaz in their false and fabricated campaigns. “There has been a conspiracy to ruin the lives of innocent girls through the misuse of social media. Three pictures of girls were posted under the same name. A video of the girl who fainted during the protest was also shared.”

She called on parents, teachers, and the media to fulfill their responsibilities in countering the false campaign.

She announced that the case regarding plots designated for journalists in RUDA has been resolved, along with the lifting of the stay order. “All eligible journalists will be granted five-marla plots. More than 3,200 journalists will receive plots under this scheme. A 10 percent quota has also been reserved for DGPR employees,” she stated.

Speaking to the media, she congratulated all journalists in Lahore, saying, “Our hard work has paid off. This matter had been pending in court for a long time, and today the stay has been vacated.” She acknowledged the cooperation of Arshad Ansari, President of the Lahore Press Club, in this effort.

Bokhari mentioned that they have a list of Lahore Press Club members, and those who are non-member journalists with ten years of experience can also submit applications. Journalists who have been associated with any media house for ten years only need to submit their salary slips for one year along with their application.

She emphasised, “No cameraman is inferior, and no reporter is superior; everyone is equal in my eyes. All will receive five-marla plots without any discrimination.” Azma Bokhari expressed her happiness at being able to achieve something positive for media persons, adding that the 10 percent quota for DGPR employees allows them to apply as well.