Government’s Advertisement and Social Media Backlash
The Punjab government’s “news advertisement” on the front page of newspapers sparked debate on social media. Critics, particularly from the opposition, argued that presenting an ad in the form of news was misleading. However, the government defended the move, stating it was a way to showcase its first-year performance, an essential practice given the constant criticism it faced from day one.
News vs. Advertisement – A Long-Standing Tradition
Ideally, news and advertisements should be distinct, allowing readers to differentiate between them. However, newspapers have long blurred these lines. Property advertisements often appear as news, and full-page ads have been a part of newspaper traditions for years. The Punjab government’s approach was not a new violation but rather a continuation of existing media practices.
The Economic Reality of the Newspaper Industry
Media houses rely heavily on advertisements to sustain operations. The cost of publishing a newspaper far exceeds its selling price, making ad revenue essential. Newspaper owners sometimes reject ads on ethical grounds, as seen when Urdu Digest banned cigarette ads, but such decisions come with financial losses. Unlike social media, where individuals profit from any type of content, newspapers still uphold ethical journalism despite economic struggles.
Social Media – The True Source of Misinformation?
Critics of the government’s ad must also examine the reality of social media, where misinformation, clickbait, and sensationalism are rampant. Many YouTubers and TikTokers fabricate news, exploit personal lives, and use misleading thumbnails for profit. For two years, false claims about political meetings and impending releases have circulated, yet people continue to believe them without scrutiny.
The Need for Fact-Based Criticism
Instead of focusing on the format of the government’s advertisement, critics should challenge the content. If the performance claims are false, investigative efforts should expose them. Otherwise, acknowledging the accomplishments—regardless of the promotional method—remains fair journalism.
Conclusion
Traditional media, despite financial struggles, still maintains credibility compared to social media’s misinformation-driven model. To preserve journalism, ad revenue must be regulated to ensure media workers receive fair wages. Ultimately, rather than engaging in political bias, critics should fact-check claims and ensure accountability in a meaningful way.
By Syed Badar Saeed
