To: Mir Shakil-ur-Rahman, Editor-in-chief The News
Jang group: Apologize and Retract Defamation and Slander Of Human Rights Advocate
In a news report published on Saturday, 31st of December'2011, titled "Ex-chief justice raps HRW for interfering with SC", The News displayed irresponsible reporting by defaming and slandering human rights advocate, Ali Dayan Hasan, Pakistan's director for Human Rights Watch (HRW).
While quoting ex-chief justice's criticism of Ali Dayan, The News 'alleged', without substantial evidence, that a statement made by HRW's director, with reference to Memo gate, was plotted by the "Federal Government"
Quote:
"The News has reliably learnt that Dayan has close links and has been meeting with top men of the present regime"
The News didn't provide any evidence or details of how the report concludes such hefty allegations.
This from country's largest media group sets a precedent that it is acceptable to slander, attack, discredit and incite violence all in the name of freedom of speech.
Ali Dayan Hasan is one of the country's most courageous human rights advocate, to discourage his work and that of Human Rights Watch is a huge blow to human rights advocacy in Pakistan.
Yellow journalism is unacceptable, and The News should apologize and retract it's statement.
Why is this important?
Link to report: http://thenews.com.pk/TodaysPrintDetail.aspx?ID=11390&Cat=13
We respect journalist's right to protect their sources, but in this particular instance, since hefty claims are being made, substantial evidence should be provided. In the past malicious campaigns against person have led to threats and has incited violence.
Say no to irresponsible reporting, lies, slandering and attack on human rights organizations the Jang Group.