Section 05 · On air / Off air
Who gets the microphone
Many of Pakistan's best-known voices no longer appear on television. They report from YouTube, X and podcasts — often from abroad.
● On air
Hamid Mir Returned
Pulled from Geo News in 2021 after a protest speech; reinstated in 2022.
Mainstream TV anchors On air
Continue on licensed channels, but describe self-censorship and editorial 'red lines'.
○ Forced off air
Talat Hussain
Left mainstream TV in 2018 amid pressure; moved to digital platforms.
Matiullah Jan
Dropped by TV channels; reports independently on YouTube.
Asad Ali Toor
Works through YouTube and social media after facing arrest and assault.
Imran Riaz Khan
Left TV after cases and detention; broadcasts online from abroad.
Moeed Pirzada
Broadcasts from abroad via YouTube after cases were filed against him.
Why journalists are pushed off air
- Channels told by regulators or 'advice' to drop specific anchors
- Cable operators moving or blocking channels that air critical voices
- Advertising boycotts that pressure owners
- Criminal cases that make travel or work in Pakistan unsafe