PEMRA to TV channels: do not air harmful propaganda against state institutions
JournalismPakistan.com | Published: 10 August 2022
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PEMRA has issued a directive to satellite TV channels to stop broadcasting propaganda against state institutions. This move follows an observed trend of misinformation on news channels.Summary
ISLAMABAD—Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has directed all satellite television channels to stop airing "propaganda, misinformation, and disinformation against state institutions."
In a directive, PEMRA said that the authority had observed a trend on satellite TV channels, specifically news and current affairs, wherein misinformation and disinformation are spread against the state institutions without any compelling justification.
"Such trend on channels not only tantamounts to casting aspersions against state institutions but also a planned propaganda campaign against the state institutions."
PEMRA further maintained that "freedom of speech and expression is the fundamental right of every citizen as per Article 19 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan; however, this right is subject to restrictions imposed by law in the interest of glory of Islam or the integrity, security or defense of Pakistan."
The directive asked all satellite TV channel licensees to follow the principles laid down in the constitution and judgments passed by the Supreme Court of Pakistan and Islamabad High Court in the past.
A day before, the transmission of ARY News was suspended by PEMRA for allegedly spreading propaganda against state institutions.
Key Points
- PEMRA directs TV channels to halt harmful propaganda.
- Observed misinformation against state institutions is concerning.
- Freedom of speech is subject to legal restrictions.
- Previous Supreme Court judgments guide PEMRA's actions.
- ARY News' transmission was suspended for similar infractions.
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