People's Perception about Media Reporting on Constitutional Issue: A Study Based on Gilgit Baltistan.

Abstract

This survey research study examines the demographic, organizational, personal social, and professional characteristics of 110 journalists in Gilgit-Baltistan during a period of political change from constitutional anarchy to a democratic, relatively free press system. The study focuses on the limitations and sufferings faced by journalists in performing their professional responsibilities and the future possibilities of their role in national development. The research uses a quantitative survey method and a self-design questionnaire to collect data from 110 journalists from 10 districts of Gilgit-Baltistan. Most journalists are male, young, well-educated, employed by private media, and have over three years of job seniority. They are underpaid, less secure, and committed to their profession, but deny complete freedom and professional autonomy. They are also apprehensive about the role of government and professional journalistic bodies in the development of media in the region. Many journalists in Gilgit-Baltistan are between 40 and 50 years old, with a decreasing number of journalists joining the field. Most journalists are paid between 10k to 20k PKR and hold master's degrees. Over 90% of journalists who perform their responsibilities as watchdogs have not studied journalism in their educational careers. The study explores the professional environment and ground available for journalists in an unconstitutional region.