PEMRA to TV channels: stop airing content against state institutions

JournalismPakistan.com | Published: 18 May 2022

The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has issued a warning to television channels against airing content that demeans state institutions. This directive includes compliance with established media conduct and potential penalties for violations.
Summary

ISLAMABAD—The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has warned television channels to remain vigilant and stop airing “malicious, obnoxious or derogatory material through their platform against any state institution including judiciary and the armed forces.”

The regulatory body has asked TV channels to refrain from telecasting content against state institutions while airing their talk shows, news bulletins, and live coverage of public gatherings.

The body has also directed all satellite TV channels to ensure the installation of an effective delay mechanism in their transmission, mainly while covering public gatherings and rallies. The regulator directed them to constitute an independent editorial board in compliance with the Electronic Media (Advertising and Programs) Code of Conduct 2015 and orders of superior courts.

“Moreover, licensees have been sensitised of the fact that ridiculing state institutions especially judiciary and armed forces is against the PEMRA laws and various judgements of the Superior Courts,” it said.

PEMRA has also warned the channels that if they commit any intentional or unintentional violation, the authority’s law shall be invoked. It could lead to the prohibition of programs/talk shows under Section 27 without any notice, imposition of a fine up to Rs1 million under Section 29, suspension/revocation/cancellation of license/closure of transmission under Section 30 of the PEMRA Ordinance 2002 Amended PEMRA (Amendment) Act 2007.

PEMRA has repeatedly urged TV channels to follow the authority’s laws and court orders in letter and spirit and refrain from airing “slanderous campaign/content” against any state institution.

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