KARACHI (APP) – Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Sherry Rehman Sunday inquired the well-being of camera-person injured in April 9 violence, Ms. Lala Rukh, who is associated with Geo television network.

Federal Information Minister visited the residence of the injured camera person, where she presented a bouquet to the injured and expressed sympathy with her and her family.

Later, talking to media, the Information said an advice has been given for establishment of a special “Hot Line” only for the journalists, on which they may contact in case they face any violence or emergency situation.

She said womenfolk like Lala Rukh should be encouraged to join the practical field and a profession like journalism.

Sherry Rehman said she has prepared and moved a summary to establish a fund for journalists to provide relief to them.

She also called upon Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA) to arrange an insurance cover for journalists and ensure utilization of the same for its beneficiaries in need of hour.

Terming the violence confronting media as a new problem, she said it had not existed in the past. She was of the view that the violence faced by electronic media is because its- activities are in the front lines, during spot coverage.

Speaking on the occasion, injured camera person Ms Lala Rukh said the incident of violence took place when she was performing her duty outside City Courts on April 9, 2008. She was attacked by some miscreants armed with stick, she noted.

When any media body employee faces violence while performing duty and gets injured, at least insurance cover should be provided to the affected person and in case of that person’s death, the same should be given to the bereaved family, she suggested.
Source: The Nation
Date:4/28/2008