Nukta, a popular digital media platform, has made headlines after firing 37 media workers in what the company called a “restructuring move.” The news quickly spread across social media, sparking concern and anger among journalists and media supporters who believe this decision reflects a bigger problem in Pakistan’s digital media industry. Many are saying, “Sell your land, not the future of media workers,” criticizing the company for prioritizing profits over people.
According to reports, Nukta said the layoffs were part of a long-term plan to make the organization more sustainable. The company has offices in Pakistan and Dubai and claimed that these changes were necessary to stay financially stable. However, for the 37 journalists who suddenly lost their jobs, this explanation brings little comfort. Many of them had been working hard to grow the platform’s presence, and being let go without warning has left them uncertain about their futures.
The news caught the attention of Pakistan’s Federal Information Minister, Attaullah Tarar, who quickly responded with a promise to help. He announced that all 37 journalists who were fired by Nukta would be provided new jobs within 48 hours. Tarar emphasized that digital media workers deserve the same job protection and respect as those in traditional media. He added that the government is working on steps to safeguard workers in online journalism, as many of them are often hired without proper contracts or benefits.
This move by Nukta has reignited the discussion about job security in Pakistan’s media industry. In recent years, both traditional and digital outlets have faced financial challenges. Advertising revenue has dropped, competition for online audiences has grown, and many media companies are struggling to stay profitable. Unfortunately, this often results in layoffs and downsizing, leaving workers vulnerable. For digital journalists, the situation can be even worse, as many platforms don’t provide the same legal protections or benefits that larger media houses do.
The government’s quick response is being seen as a positive sign, but many people believe it’s only a temporary fix. Rehiring workers elsewhere might solve an immediate problem, but it doesn’t address the deeper issue of job insecurity in the digital media space. What these journalists—and others in the same industry—really need are long-term protections. That includes proper employment contracts, fair pay, and systems that prevent companies from suddenly firing workers without notice.
This situation has also raised questions about the sustainability of digital media platforms like Nukta. If a company that was once seen as an innovative voice in Pakistani journalism is now struggling, what does that mean for the future of other similar startups? Many experts believe that without better business planning and stronger labor laws, the same pattern will continue—new platforms will rise, attract talent, and then collapse under financial pressure.
For now, the laid-off media workers are waiting to see if the government will keep its promise. While the offer of new jobs is encouraging, it remains to be seen if those jobs will offer the same pay, stability, and creative freedom they had before. This incident has reminded everyone that behind every headline, there are real people whose livelihoods depend on fair treatment. The hope is that this moment becomes a turning point for Pakistan’s digital media industry, leading to better protection, transparency, and respect for the people who keep the news alive.







