Balochistan Digital Publishers Forum Rejects Digital Media Policy, Opposes Print Budget Cuts

The Balochistan Digital Publishers Forum has rejected the proposed digital media policy, deeming it "non-consultative" and warning that shifting funds from print to digital could severely damage long-established newspapers in the province. Chaired by Syed Ali Shah, the forum criticized authorities for lacking transparency and failing to consult stakeholders, including participating editors from various dailies. They stressed that digital media funding should be allocated separately to avoid diminishing the already limited print budget, cautioning this would accelerate the decline of traditional journalism. The forum called for a redrafted policy through broad consultations, emphasizing adherence to national frameworks and the protection of print media. Highlighting existing security and financial pressures on journalists in Balochistan, the forum warned that unclear policies and reduced government advertising threaten jobs and the survival of local media outlets.