Remembering a ‘media judge’ |
Journalists and media workers will forever remember the services of ITNE Chairman Shahid Mahmood Khokhar. This is not a mere formal statement; it is the truth that he fostered an environment for thousands associated with the media sector in Pakistan—one in which justice, dignity, and professional honor were foundational.
He became Chairman of ITNE at a time when journalists and media workers faced innumerable legal obstacles in claiming their rights. Yet, through his vision, sincerity, and deep understanding of law, he not only made the institution effective but also elevated its dignity to new heights.
Under his leadership, ITNE achieved what had previously remained buried in files. Whether it was disputes between media owners and employees, or issues about salaries and benefits—Shahid Mahmood Khokhar handled each case with principles of justice and humanism. He believed that media workers are the voices of the state, and safeguarding their rights is indeed guaranteeing the stability of democracy. That is why he made transparency and impartiality central to every institutional decision.
During his tenure, ITNE resolved many significant cases that not only delivered justice but also restored confidence within the journalistic community. One important case involved dozens of employees of a well-known private TV channel who had not been paid for months. When that case came before ITNE, it was expected that the decision would take years. However, Chairman Khokhar prioritized it. He personally reviewed daily progress, heard lawyers’ arguments, scrutinized records, and ultimately issued a decision requiring the employer to pay all dues, overtime allowances, and pending amounts. That verdict lit up many households and restored smiles to many faces.
Similarly, a case involving a woman reporter working for a provincial news agency also showed his judicial insight. She had accused her employer of harassment and unfair dismissal. In past instances, such cases were often ignored. But Shahid Mahmood Khokhar treated it with seriousness. He impartially examined all evidence and witness statements, gave both sides full........