ISLAMABAD: Senior journalist Syed Talat Hussain has questioned BBC’s transparency in its coverage of Pakistan, claiming that 77% of its Pakistan-related stories don’t carry bylines.
Speaking at a TV programme, Hussain said the issue was not only about transparency but also raised questions about how stories related to Pakistan are reported and presented. He also claimed that none of the Pakistani sources mentioned in stories by BBC journalist Azizullah Khan was directly quoted.
Hussain further alleged that the BBC’s coverage of Pakistan has been more negative compared with reports on Pakistan published by media outlets internationally. According to Hussain, the coverage showed a significant difference in the tone of reporting, particularly on important issues concerning Pakistan.
He stressed that such topics require balanced reporting and that different perspectives should be given proper space.
“This is not just about reporting; balanced reporting is needed,” Hussain said, arguing that the BBC appeared to be focusing heavily on negative aspects in its Pakistan coverage.
He also referred to the challenges faced by journalists while working abroad. “Believe me, after landing in Washington, I will need an NOC there to carry out reporting,” he said. Hussain’s remarks have brought fresh attention to questions surrounding transparency, sourcing and balance in international media coverage of Pakistan.
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