The Pakistani government recently conferred the prestigious Tamgha-e-Imtiaz to renowned journalists for their contributions to different fields.
While the awards were presented with much fanfare, it ignited intense debates and trolling, especially on social media, as social media users and activists shared different opinions.
Tamgha-e-Imtiaz was awarded to journalists Kamran Shahid, Nasrullah Malik, Muneeb Farooq, senior anchor Muzammil Suharwardi, and emerging figures such as Rafiuddin, Ammad Shakeel Butt, and Rabab Sikandar.
Also read: Here’s a list of personalities conferred with Pakistan Civil Awards
The awards, while intended to recognise outstanding contributions of journos, drew widespread criticism from sections of the media and social media users.
Many of the recipients have been labelled “pro-government” or accused of aligning with the ruling regime, sparking claims of favouritism and the politicisation of the awards.
Apart from the controversy, the ceremony was attended by government officials and civil society representatives, underlining the significance of the event in Pakistan’s political and media landscape.
Tamgha-e-Imtiaz is a state-organised honour of Pakistan. It is given to any civilian in Pakistan based on their achievements.
While it is a civilian/military award, it can be bestowed upon officers of the Pakistan Armed Forces and worn on their uniform.
It can also be awarded to foreign citizens who have performed great service to Pakistan.
