ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar on Friday strongly condemned the Indian media for spreading disinformation, adding that Pakistan’s Parliament, armed forces, media, and the nation had delivered a unified and resolute response to Indian aggression.
Speaking during the Question Hour in the National Assembly, Tarar praised Parliament’s strong support for Operation Bunyan Marsoos, state-run news agency APP reported.
Addressing the false narratives circulated by Indian media—particularly claims that ports in Lahore and Multan had been destroyed—Tarar said Pakistan’s unified and coordinated response effectively countered such disinformation. He highlighted this as a demonstration of the strength of media ethics and responsible journalism in the country.
The minister commended members of both the government and opposition for their collective efforts in articulating Pakistan’s stance on national television. He emphasised that local media played a crucial role in shaping public opinion at home, which in turn enabled Pakistan to respond confidently and consistently on international platforms.
Tarar also acknowledged the contribution of PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and representatives of various political parties, noting their significant efforts in presenting Pakistan’s position on global media forums.
Threat of misinformation
Underscoring the growing threat of misinformation, Tarar pointed to global discussions at the World Economic Forum, where world leaders recognised disinformation as one of today’s most pressing global challenges. He stressed that the problem has become even more complex with the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence.
To address these challenges, Tarar said the Ministry of Information has launched the Fact Checker Twitter handle and amended its 1970 rules to establish Pakistan’s first Digital Communication Department, equipped with modern software to ensure timely and accurate public messaging.
Information Minister Attaullah Tarar emphasised the urgent need for a national alliance to intensify efforts against disinformation. While ongoing research is helping to identify false narratives, he noted that research alone is insufficient. Tarar called for a coordinated strategy involving the Ministries of Information Technology, Information, and Law to address disinformation challenges both domestically and internationally.
To formalise and strengthen these efforts, the minister proposed the establishment of a dedicated parliamentary committee. He urged opposition members to contribute constructively, stressing that if the committee produces effective recommendations, the credit would be shared by the entire National Assembly.
