The Press in Chains

by Zamir Niazi

This book investigates the nature of curbs and censorship imposed by successive governments on the press during British rule in India, and during the first two-three decades of Pakistan’s independence. This well-researched book highlights measures taken by various governments against press freedom till the end of the Ayub Khan era. The volume features the origins of the local press in the subcontinent and highlights the contribution of the early crusaders of press freedom. It also discusses M.A. Jinnah’s views on the freedom of the press and his efforts to promote it before and after the creation of Pakistan. The author also focuses on the action taken by governments against some newspapers during the initial phase of parliamentary democracy/civilian rule that ended in 1958. The book includes the story of the takeover of Progressive Papers Limited by the government, the creation of the National Press Trust, and the acquisition of the news agency APP by the Ayub government. Certain legislative measures and the system of press advices adopted by different governments to restrict freedom of expression are discussed in detail. This book is essential reading for people in government as well as representatives of the media, students, and teachers in the field.

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256 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1987

About the author

Zamir Niazi (1932–2004) was a renowned Pakistani journalist, famous for his commitment to the freedom of the press in Pakistan.

In 1954, Niazi joined Dawn. He advanced quickly, and was soon a sub-editor. In 1962, he left Dawn to be a chief sub editor and lead writer at its rival, the Daily News. He stayed here for 3 years, before joining the Business Recorder in 1965. Working in various capacities, he stayed at Business Recorder for 25 years. He also edited two periodicals on the side: Recorder, a monthly, and Current, a weekly.
In 1986, Niazi released his book 'The Press In Chains', an exposé on the suppression of the media by the Pakistani government. Published by the Karachi Press Club, the book received rave reviews, and several editions were published. It was also translated into Urdu.
Niazi followed up on his success with two more books, both about the same topic. 'The Web of Censorship', published in 1994, ventured onto new ground, that of the latest generation of Pakistani journalists. Both books were popular, and Niazi emerged as the hero and leader of the Pakistani freedom of press movement in the 1990s.
In 1995, Niazi returned his Pride of Performance award to the government, in response to its closure of six newspapers. After a long illness, Niazi died in 2004.

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