JournalismPakistan.com | Published June 14, 2024
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KARACHI—Journalist Ameen Rajput, who had been battling unemployment and severe economic hardship, passed away in Karachi. His death brings to light the struggles faced by many journalists in Pakistan amidst a challenging economic climate.
According to reports, Rajput had announced his unemployment a few months ago, revealing that he was dismissed from his position at a newspaper and had not received his salary for several months. In a desperate plea for help, he had threatened to commit suicide in front of the newspaper's office if his dues were not paid. Following this, some dues were settled, and friends and colleagues offered their support.
Despite this, unemployment became a persistent issue in Rajput's life. He was often seen at the press club with a weary expression, sharing his tales of woe with tearful eyes. His situation worsened when his wife left him, taking their belongings and leaving him to sleep on a cold floor under a borrowed roof. In his desperation, he reached out to friends for necessities like blankets and warm clothing.
In one poignant instance, Rajput contacted a colleague, requesting a blanket, as he had nothing but the clothes on his back. His colleague not only provided him with two blankets but also gave him a leather jacket and arranged for additional help.
Rajput's wife eventually returned, taking up domestic work to make ends meet, but the emotional toll on Rajput was evident. He frequently reached out to friends for help, unable to cope with the relentless economic pressures.
The news of his passing was shared by senior journalist Javed Akhtar Bhatti, who posted about Rajput's death on social media. Bhatti mentioned that Rajput had informed him of his severe illness just two days back, stating that the treatment costs were exorbitant, amounting to around Rs30 to 40 lakh.
Rajput's death is a stark reminder of the dire conditions faced by many journalists in Pakistan. The media industry, plagued by economic instability, leaves many journalists without a safety net. Rajput's story is not unique; it reflects the broader issues of unemployment and economic struggle that affect many in the profession.
Media watchdogs have long been advocating for better support systems for journalists. Rajput's death underscores the urgent need for such measures to be implemented.
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