Pakistan’s Human Rights Commission (HRCP) offered a sober account of the media freedoms in Pakistan in his latest report entitled ‘Harsh Sentences: State of Freedom of Freedom of expression (2022-24)’ Published Thursday.

The results of the report authored by journalist Mahim Maher revealed a worrying landscape. The report investigated the changing dynamic since the deposition of former Prime Minister Imran Khan through a vote of no confidence in April 2022.

While some parts of the media were facing tighter restrictions, the report said, enjoyed other uncontrolled freedom, creating a fragmented and manipulated tale.

The report highlighted sharp realities, including the murder of a journalist, forced disappearances, targeted “press advice” and legislative changes that seem to be designed to restrict digital freedoms.

Despite rising state censorship, the report said, the digital sphere had become a budding space for alternative voices that challenged traditional power structures. At the same time, the declining confidence in older media had been exploited by the interests of companies, right -wing extremist groups and elements within the establishment.

The report said the censorship action triggered a broader national debate on freedom of expression, emphasizing the resilience of the Pakistan’s desire to express themselves. The report issued both a warning and an invitation to action that highlighted the urgent need to protect freedom of expression in an increasingly controlled environment.