By our correspondent
KARACHI: The recent decision by the administration of Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC), Karachi, to restrict journalists’ access to the hospital has drawn criticism from media organizations, which described the move as a setback to press freedom and the public’s right to information.
Journalists said JPMC, being Pakistan’s largest public sector tertiary care hospital, remained a vital source of information during emergencies, accidents, fires, explosions and other major public health incidents. They expressed concern that restrictions on media access could affect timely and accurate reporting on issues of public interest.
Media representatives also questioned administrative decisions within the hospital, alleging that certain appointments and responsibilities were not being made on the basis of merit. They raised concerns over the assignment of media liaison and administrative responsibilities to a postgraduate trainee doctor, saying such duties were inconsistent with the training requirements set by the College of Physicians and Surgeons Pakistan (CPSP), which primarily focus on clinical education and patient care.
The journalists urged Sindh Health Minister and Sindh Senior Information Minister to review the decision, withdraw the restrictions and introduce a transparent media access policy to ensure smooth communication between the hospital administration and the press. The hospital administration has not yet issued an official response to the allegations.
