A unique protest is unfolding outside the Geo News office in Islamabad where employees of Daily Jang Rawalpindi have set up a pakora stall to demand timely salary payments. The protest organized by the Union of Punjabi Journalists (UPJ) has been ongoing for two days with workers running the pakora stall and organizing Iftar meals.
Delayed Salary Payments Spark Outrage
The employees are protesting against delayed salary payments with only a 15-day salary issued after two months. This has left them feeling insulted and frustrated. The protest camp led by the UPJ will continue today with candidates for the upcoming National Press Club elections joining in solidarity.
Journalistic Leaders Demand Justice
Speakers at the protest emphasized that Ramadan is a month of blessings and generosity but Mir Shakil and the Jang administration have made life difficult for their workers. They demanded that Mir Shakil immediately release salaries, stating that the Jang group earns millions in government advertisements but fails to pay rightful wages to its employees.
Pakora Stall Symbolizes Demand for Timely Payments
The pakora stall has become a symbol of the employees demand for timely salary payments. The protest will continue until all dues are cleared. The speakers also warned all media houses to ensure timely salary payments to journalists and media workers or face a well-organized strategy leading to widespread protests.
Government Urged to Take Notice
The protesters urged the government to take notice of the media owners stubbornness and demanded that government advertisement payments be linked to the timely payment of workers salaries. They stressed the need to resolve this crucial issue immediately.
Solidarity from Journalistic Community
Candidates for the National Press Club elections, including Shakeel Qarar, Dr. Saadia Kamal, and Fauzia Kulsoom Rana, joined the protest in solidarity. They broke their fast on the sidewalk with the workers showing their support for the cause.
Protest Continues Until Demands are Met
The protest will continue until the employees demands are met. The UPJ has vowed to keep fighting for the rights of journalists and media workers. As the protest enters its third day the employees remain determined to get their rightful dues.
A Call to Action for Media Houses
The protest serves as a warning to all media houses to prioritize timely salary payments to their employees. The journalistic community will not tolerate exploitation and oppression and will fight for their rights.
