PM voices concern over rising trend of 'fake news'

Prime Minister Imran Khan has expressed his concern on the rising trend of "fake news" in the country which are against national interests. He conveyed his concern during the federal Cabinet meeting held on September 3, 2019 wherein different issues of national importance came under discussion.
According to sources, Prime Minister quoted a number of instances where bona fide decisions of the government had been negatively propagated in the media. The Cabinet felt that there had to be a mechanism to check the trend of fake news which were slanderous and at times negatively impacting on national interests. It was decided to hold separate brainstorming session for detailed discussion on ways to curb this trend.
The Advisor on Information informed the Cabinet that the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting has developed Pak News APP, which will be launched soon. This will be an easy way to receive and disseminate authentic and accurate news. Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has been directed to develop a comprehensive strategy in consultation with other stakeholders to address the issue of "fake news" within one month.
The PM also expressed grave concern over the reports regarding dumping of thousands of tons of hospital waste into to the sea. He stated that such profuse discharge of toxic waste will prove disastrous for marine life apart from jeopardizing the livelihood and health of the fishermen in the area. He appreciated that the issue, if not tackled now, will have negative impact on the entire ecosystem. The need for a proper hospital waste disposal/ management policy was therefore, stressed.
The Cabinet decided that Ministry of National Health Regulations and Coordination will coordinate with provincial governments to enforce hospital waste disposal regulations. A report on this matter will be submitted in the next Cabinet meeting. Ministry of Finance has been directed to establish a dedicated cell to monitor economy related news in the media for immediate rejoinders/rebuttals/clarifications.