Urdu News layoffs across Pakistan hit multiple journalists, including senior names, as financial strain deepens the media crisis, raising concerns over job security and the future of journalism nationwide.
WebDesk: MediaBites News
A Saudi-owned Urdu-language outlet, Urdu News, has laid off multiple employees across Pakistan, adding to growing concerns over job losses in the country’s struggling media industry.
The dismissals reportedly include Bashir Chaudhry, vice president of the National Press Club, and senior reporter Waheed Murad. The total number of affected employees has not been disclosed, and the organization has yet to issue an official statement.
Journalists say the layoffs are linked to financial difficulties, reflecting broader pressures facing both local and international media organizations operating in Pakistan.
Reports suggest the job cuts span multiple major cities, though details about specific bureaus or departments remain unclear. The lack of official confirmation has fueled uncertainty among media professionals.
The development was first highlighted by journalist Rizwan Ghilzai on social media, with others, including Asad Toor, warning that the trend signals a worsening outlook for the profession.
Industry voices say the layoffs underscore a deepening employment crisis in Pakistan’s media sector, where shrinking revenues and rising operational costs have forced repeated downsizing.
Recent weeks have seen similar actions at several outlets. The Karachi Union of Journalists recently criticized layoffs at Aaj TV, alleging employees were dismissed without notice and left unpaid for months.
Other organizations, including Abb Takk TV, Nukta and NewsOne, have also reduced staff in recent months, pointing to sustained financial strain across the industry.
Analysts warn that continued job cuts could undermine both job security and editorial independence, as media organizations struggle to balance costs while maintaining credible journalism.
