Paid Rs40,000 Salary, Then Forced to Quit: Journalists Raise Voice for Dawn News Reporter Rukhsana Khan

The reported forced resignation of Dawn News reporter Rukhsana Khan has sparked serious concern among journalists and media workers, especially after claims emerged that she was working on a monthly salary of just Rs40,000.

According to information circulating in journalistic circles, Rukhsana Khan had been serving as a field reporter in Islamabad on a very low pay scale, despite the demanding nature of her job. Reporters say surviving on Rs40,000 in a city like Islamabad is already difficult, and the situation becomes even more troubling when job security is taken away without transparency.

The controversy intensified when it was alleged that Rukhsana Khan was forced to resign, rather than stepping down willingly. Journalists argue that if any concerns or allegations existed, they should have been handled through a proper inquiry process, not through pressure or sudden removal.

So far, Dawn News has not issued an official clarification on whether the resignation was voluntary or forced. Rukhsana Khan has also not released a public statement, which has further fueled questions about workplace practices in mainstream media organizations.

Journalist unions and media voices are now calling for fair treatment, due process, and dignity for reporters, especially women working in the field. Many point out that journalists often work long hours, face public pressure, security risks, and ethical challenges — all while being paid salaries that barely cover basic living expenses.

“This is not just about one reporter,” said a senior journalist. “This is about the system. Low wages, no job security, and forced resignations are becoming common in our media industry.”

The case has reopened a wider debate about journalist rights in Pakistan, including fair wages, transparent accountability, and protection from workplace pressure.

Until Dawn News provides a clear response, journalists say they will continue to raise their voice for accountability and justice, stressing that journalism cannot survive where reporters are silenced instead of supported.