The Pakistani government has sparked outrage by awarding high civilian honors to two media figures, Qamar Cheema and Wajahat Kazmi, for their roles in spreading disinformation during Operation Sindoor, a military standoff with India. Cheema received the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, while Kazmi was honored for his “exceptional media contribution.”
An investigation by the Digital Forensic Research and Analysis Centre (DFRAC) revealed that both individuals engaged in misinformation campaigns. Cheema promoted false claims, including fabricated reports of Indian aircraft being shot down and misusing video game footage as real combat visuals. His connections to controversial figures further compromise his credibility. Kazmi, who has a history of inciting communal tensions and faced past sexual harassment allegations, exploited his media associations to amplify deceitful narratives.
By recognizing these individuals associated with disinformation and ethically questionable actions, Pakistan reflects a concerning convergence between state acknowledgment and narrative warfare.
