Consultation vital to address concerns over Defamation Bill: governor

LAHORE: Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider said that consultation is very important to address the concerns of all stakeholders on the Defamation Bill.

He said this while talking to Pakistan People's Party Parliamentary Leader in Punjab Assembly Syed Ali Haider Gillani, who called on him at the Governor’s House on Monday. MNA Syed Abdul Qadir Gillani was also present on this occasion. The overall situation of Punjab including matters of mutual interest was discussed in the meeting.

On this occasion, MNA Abdul Qadir Gillani informed the governor about the PPP stance regarding the Defamation Bill. He said that PPP believes in freedom of expression and our members were absent from the meeting at the time of the Defamation Bill. He also emphasised that the South Punjab Secretariat should be empowered.

Speaking on the occasion, Punjab governor said that the doors of the Governor’s House are open for all the workers and the public. He said that all political parties should be on one page for the development of the country. He emphasised that strengthening the coalition government was important to bring stability in the country. He added that political stability is vital to the economic development of the country.

Governor Punjab said that party leadership has reposed his trust on him and he would try his best to come up to their expectations by fulfilling his constitutional responsibilities in the best possible way. He said that he would work for the development of Punjab province and will visit every district of Punjab province, especially South Punjab, very soon.

Furthermore, former Governor Sindh Dr Ishratul Ebad also contacted Punjab Governor. Dr Ishrat congratulated the Punjab Governor on assuming the office and expressed his best wishes.

Meanwhile, a three-member delegation of a media house called on Punjab Governor at Governor’s House. Speaking on the occasion, the governor said that digital media can play an active role in promoting positive attitudes in the society and bringing about positive social changes. He said that fake news on social media is an issue that needs attention and everyone should play their role as a social responsibility to prevent the spread of fake news.