Abstract
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), in its manifesto, promised a free and independent media with an autonomous Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) which does not become a tool in the hands of the ruling party (Insaf, 2018). The present study examines the increased control of the PTI government and the military on media outlets, independent journalists, artists, and literary figures around the country. The paper also discusses the rebalancing of power structure and political dynamics in Pakistan, along with the role of presidential ordinances: Pakistan Media Development Authority (PMDA) and amendment to Prevention in Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), which aim to bolster control, curb the narrative, and further limit the freedom of expression. The paper investigates the institutionalization of these draconian regulations whose impact has already started to appear with the confiscation and setting ablaze of Urdu translations of Mohammad Hanif’s novel: A Case of Exploding Mangoes by unknown men in Karachi, a novel which illustrates the historical fictional account of General Zia’s last days as President of Pakistan (Hussain, 2020). Dawn, one of the country’s oldest newspapers, has been banned and denied distribution in army cantonments since 2018. It is hoped that the present study will create awareness regarding this shift of balance towards authoritarianism and provide factual understanding of the country’s current political milieu.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Fédérer Langues, Altérités, Marginalités, Médias, Éthique
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
