Judge, journalist, every human being should speak truth: Qazi Faez Isa
ISLAMABAD, Aug 23 (SABAH): Chief Justice-designate Justice Qazi Faez Isa has emphasized that responsible journalism is need of the hour and added that judge, journalist and every human being should speak truth.
Addressing an oath-taking ceremony of Supreme Court Press Association in Islamabad here on Wednesday, Chief Justice-designate Qazi Faez Isa said the main purpose of media is to ensure that the truth reaches the public. He further said freedom of expression and access to information is the right of each and every citizen of the country.
He further said that positive journalism leaves positive impact on the society and added journalist is an individual who breaks news after investigation. He said one should not forward news without investigating it properly.
“Motif behind all the laws is to bring forth truth and justice is done on the basis of truth. Any party can say that justice has not been delivered in the verdict. There is a difference among falsehood, truth and opinion. I cannot falsify your truth,” he remarked.
“You forget the difference between a news and opinion. One is truth and another is opinion. Opinion could be differed but no one could differ with the truth. Instead of putting forth opinion, a journalist should make it clear that it is his opinion. He should also investigate the matters,” Justice Qazi Faez Isa remarked.
He maintained, “Media is improving itself. Those who give opinion through their articles could not be termed as journalists. As taking up camera, or mobile phone and being attached with some media house could not make someone a journalist. Everyone could tell what happened today when he is sent to some event.”
“When someone has to put forth his/her opinion, he has to see do so in the light of Constitution and law. There is a difference between paying onsite visits during reporting and transmitting information just after listening to others. When the Holy Prophet (SAWW) was asked can a Muslim be a liar, he replied, no. Truth was of paramount significance even before the advent of Islam,” Justice Qazi Faez Isa added.
He noted, “According to Injeel-e-Muqaddas, truth sets us free. Responsible journalism is need of the hour. Judge, journalist and every human being should speak truth. Basic purpose of media is to transmit correct information to the people.