CPJ calls for full access to Geo TV to be restored

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 4 April 2018

The Committee to Protect Journalists is raising concerns about the accessibility of Geo TV in Pakistan. Reports indicate that 80% of the channel remains blocked despite government claims of no interference.

Summary

WASHI NGTON – The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) on Wednesday expressed concern over reports that the privately-owned Geo TV is not accessible throughout parts of the country including Karachi, Lahore, and Multan, despite government assertions that authorities have taken no steps to block it.

Managing Director Azhar Abbas (pictured) told CPJ that the channel had faced arbitrary blockages and changing channel numbers for several years, but currently, 80 percent of the network remains blocked.

The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) on Tuesday ordered cable operators to restore the channel to normal distribution within 24 hours or face suspension of their cable licenses. Cable operators have yet to comply with the order, according to Abbas.

"The arbitrary suspension of Geo TV on cable TV is a direct assault on Pakistan's constitutionally guaranteed right to access information," said CPJ Asia Program Coordinator Steven Butler. "It's outrageous that authorities are either unable to find or too frightened to name those powerful enough to orchestrate the blocking of news distribution." – A CPJ statement

KEY POINTS:

• CPJ expresses concern over Geo TV access in Pakistan.
• Channel blocked in major cities like Karachi and Lahore.
• PEMRA ordered restoration within 24 hours.
• Cable operators have not complied with the order.
• Access issues represent a violation of information rights.