Lahore, January 15:The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has expressed grief at the passing of Minhaj Barna, veteran journalist and a leading member of journalists’ trade unions.

A statement by the Commission said: “HRCP is shocked and grieved at the passing of Mr Minhaj Barna, a former president of the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) and All Pakistan Newspaper Employees’ Confederation (APNEC). His services for the promotion of freedom of expression and the economic rights of the journalist community can never be forgotten. Mr Barna was also one of the founder members of HRCP and remained a steadfast defender of people’s basic rights all his life. HRCP extends heartfelt condolences to the late Brana’s daughter and other members of his extended family.”

Dr. Mehdi Hasan

Chairperson