Is media a curse or blessing? Critically evaluate its role in shaping public opinion and influencing political events in Pakistan in the 21st century.

Introduction

Media is called the fourth pillar of the state because it informs citizens and holds power accountable. In twenty-first-century Pakistan, media has grown from a handful of state-controlled outlets into a crowded landscape of private TV channels, newspapers, digital platforms and social media. Its influence on public opinion and politics is enormous — and both constructive and harmful. Whether it is a curse or a blessing depends on how it is used and regulated.

Evolution

In 2002 General Pervez Musharraf's government liberalised electronic media and created the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA). Dozens of private news channels emerged, followed by FM radio. In the 2010s, smartphones and cheap mobile data made Facebook, YouTube, X (Twitter), WhatsApp and TikTok major sources of news, especially for the young.

Media as a blessing

Media has raised political awareness, exposed corruption and abuses of power, and given ordinary citizens a voice. Its coverage of the lawyers' movement (2007–09) helped restore the judiciary. Coverage of the 2005 earthquake and the 2010 and 2022 floods mobilised relief. Investigative journalism and talk shows have made governments more answerable, while social media has empowered women, minorities and remote communities to raise issues ignored by mainstream outlets.

Media as a curse

Intense competition for ratings has encouraged sensationalism, breaking-news culture and shouting-match talk shows that reward polarisation over analysis. Coverage of terrorism has sometimes glorified attackers or spread panic. On social media, disinformation, hate speech and propaganda campaigns spread quickly, and false accusations — including blasphemy allegations — have triggered violence. Media houses depend on government and corporate advertising, which creates pressure to self-censor, and journalists face threats, bans and violence, making Pakistan one of the more dangerous countries for journalists.

Role in political events

Television and social media have shaped elections, protests and political movements. Live coverage of the 2014 sit-ins in Islamabad dominated national attention for months. Political parties now run organised social media teams, and digital campaigning has influenced voters, especially the young, in recent elections. The state has responded with channel suspensions, internet shutdowns and new laws such as the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act and its 2025 amendments, raising concerns about freedom of expression.

Critical evaluation

Media is neither inherently a curse nor a blessing; it amplifies the strengths and weaknesses of society and the political system. A free, professional and diverse media strengthens democracy; a polarised, commercially driven or controlled media weakens it. Excessive regulation and censorship can be as harmful as irresponsibility.

Recommendations

Strengthen professional standards through codes of ethics, independent press councils and training; make PEMRA and digital regulation independent and transparent; protect journalists through implementation of the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Act 2021; promote media and digital literacy in schools; support fact-checking initiatives; diversify media ownership and advertising; and avoid blanket bans and internet shutdowns.

Conclusion

In twenty-first-century Pakistan, media has been both a blessing — informing citizens and holding power accountable — and a curse — spreading sensationalism, polarisation and disinformation. Its net effect depends on professionalism, ethical self-regulation, independent oversight and an informed public. A free and responsible media remains essential for a democratic Pakistan.