Govt bans use of word 'killed' for martyred soldiers in media

PESHAWAR: The federal Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has imposed a ban on the use of the word “killed” for martyred security personnel in print, electronic, and social media, terming it inappropriate and disrespectful.

In response to a petition filed in the Peshawar High Court (PHC) by Advocate Muhammad Hamdan, the ministry submitted its official reply, confirming the issuance of a notification banning the use of the term “killed” when referring to the personnel of security forces who lost their lives in the line of duty.

The petitioner had argued that the term “killed” was legally and morally inappropriate for members of the armed forces who sacrificed their lives for the country. He requested the court to direct all media platforms, news channels, newspapers, magazines, and social media to use the words “shaheed” or “martyr” instead.

The PHC had issued notices to relevant authorities to respond to the plea, following which the ministry submitted its reply along with a copy of the newly issued notification.

According to the ministry’s statement, “The government of Pakistan has officially prohibited the use of the word ‘killed’ for security personnel who have embraced martyrdom. All media outlets are instructed to use terms such as ‘shaheed’ or ‘martyr’ as a mark of respect.

“The notification is now in effect, and all forms of media including print, electronic, and digital, are required to comply.”