This study aims to investigate the discourse in news coverage, specifically focusing on the reporting of rape cases, with a particular focus on victim blaming and fact-hiding in the Pakistani media discourse. Drawing on the Van Dijk model of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), the study intends to unveil biases or power inequalities deep rooted in the structure and management of news reporting discourse. The research seeks to ascertain whether media outlets employ deceptive language to conceal the reality in reporting on rape cases, the influence of victim blaming on readers’ perception, and how the news media copes with the reporting of rape incidents. Data collection involves analysis of news articles from five well-known Pakistani publications: The Dawn News, ARY News, Dunya News, Geo News, and the Express Tribune particularly focusing on the "Zainab\u27s Murder and Rape Case." The analysis highlights instances of deletion, word choice, hiding identity, and lack of mention of police action, which contribute to the manipulation of information in news reports. The results of the study shed light on the biased description of rape incidents in the Pakistani media, fanning victim blame and rape lores. The study stresses the need for unbiased and truthful reporting of sexual assault incidents, ensuring that the experiences of victims are accurately portrayed. By uncovering the manipulation and biases in the Pakistani news media, this research contributes to a better understanding of the discourse patterns surrounding rape cases and the potential impact on public attitudes towards victims.
 
