THIS is apropos Mr Javed Jabbar`s letter (Oct 14). I support him for raising a voice against the government action to stifle freedom of the press in any manner. At the same time, good judgment should be shown by the reporter, more so by the editor while publishing a news item.
It goes without saying that a responsible press shapes public opinion not only with the accuracy of the matter being reportedbut with the effect the news creates. If by publishing a news report you are playing into the hands of those powers bent upon harming this country, then doesn`t the media need to fulfill a higher responsibility? I have no love lost for the militant outfits and individuals named in the report. They have been a source of trouble and distress for this country and need to be made to pay for their sins. Why were discussions behind closed doors leaked at the cost of national security? I feel concerned at the report. As a third generation regular reader and subscriber of Dawn I feel anguished. My request to all and sundry is to be responsible citizens of this country and keep the national interest foremost.
