PEMRA denies it barred channels from airing news about Parachinar attacks
JournalismPakistan.com | Published: 28 June 2017
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The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority refuted claims that it prohibited channels from covering the Parachinar attacks. It emphasized the importance of responsible reporting during sensitive times.Summary
ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) Wednesday denied it had instructed television channels not to air news or comments about the recent terrorist attacks in Parachinar.
PEMRA said in a media release a few TV channels were airing this fake news that the regulator had barred them from reporting and commenting on the attacks.
“At a time when the country is going through tragic incidents, irresponsible handling of sensitive issues by certain TV channels is a blatant violation of National Action Plan and PEMRA Code of Conduct,” the release said.
It said “knowingly or unknowingly, these TV channels are serving the nefarious interests of the terrorists and enemies of this country.”
PEMRA condemned such “irresponsible handling of news” and said it could inflame sectarian misunderstanding.
It warned the erring channels to refrain from airing fake news.
KEY POINTS:
- PEMRA denied instructing channels to avoid news on Parachinar attacks.
- Some TV channels spread fake news about PEMRA's alleged censorship.
- Irresponsible reporting could violate the National Action Plan.
- PEMRA condemned handling of news that may incite sectarian misunderstanding.
- Channels were warned to stop airing false information.
