Tremolo: Mian Nadeem Ahmed

In government institutions, departments, political figures and bureaucracy Public Relations Officer (P.R.O) The post was primarily created to establish an effective link between the public, the media and the concerned institution. The purpose of this position was to ensure timely delivery of information, public complaints reach the concerned officer, accurate and verified information is available to the journalists and the positive image of the institution is highlighted. But it has to be said with regret that the original spirit of this position has been left behind in many places.

In some institutions it is felt that the PRO starts to consider himself more powerful than the officer concerned. He decides who can meet, which journalist will get time, which citizen's application will go ahead and which will be sent back simply by saying: “Sir is busy today”، “He does not talk to the media”, or “Contact after two to four days.” These phrases are not part of an alien narrative for many journalists and civilians, but everyday experience.

Unfortunately, in some places, personal likes and dislikes also begin to affect government affairs. With whomever has a good relationship, doors are opened, meetings are quick, phone calls are answered. But every day a new reason, a new pretext and a new obstacle is prepared for him who has a personal disagreement or displeasure. This attitude is not only against professional ethics but also against the basic principles of public service.

Another worrying aspect is the rise of arrogance and pride in some individuals. If the person appointed for public service starts to consider himself higher than the people, then the usefulness of this position ends. The real dignity of a public servant is not in his chair but in his character, good morals, integrity and spirit of service.

It is also a fact that the entire sector cannot be blamed for the misbehavior of a few. There are also numerous PROs in Pakistan who discharge their duties in a highly professional manner, treat journalists courteously, ensure timely delivery of information and maintain the reputation of the institution. Such officers are indeed commendable. But where flaws exist, the need for reform is equally important.

Government officials should also consider this matter. If the head of an institution is not easily accessible to the public, elected representatives or the media, then the responsibility lies not only on the PRO but also on the management system of the institution. Officers should regularly review the performance of their PROs, listen to complaints and ensure that no employee exceeds their responsibility.

Journalists are not enemies of the state, but the eyes and ears of the society. If accurate information is provided to the media in a timely manner, rumors are dispelled, public trust in institutions increases and positive actions reach the public more effectively. But if information is withheld, unnecessary barriers are erected or personal likes and dislikes are made the norm, the damage is not only to the media but to the reputation of the entire institution.

A PRO should remember that he is not the owner of a position but a trustee of a responsibility. Its function is not to close doors but to facilitate communication. If he becomes a bridge of trust between the people, the media and the institution, then his own prestige and the respect of the institution will also increase. But if he abuses authority, makes people wait unnecessarily, gives wrong information or makes decisions based on personal relationships, not only his reputation will be affected but also the institution concerned will come under criticism.

Time has come for every government body to make its public communication system modern, transparent and accountable. Clear rules for meetings and media contacts should be set, an effective complaint system should be in place and no one person should be empowered to build a wall between the public and the institution based on personal likes and dislikes.

Remember, respect comes not from position but from character. PRO If indeed “Public Relations Officer” If so, it should strengthen the relationship with the people, not create distance between the people and the institution. This is the real spirit of this post and this is also the hallmark of a civilized, transparent and accountable system.