ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) in a directive issued on Monday has warned all satellite TV channels (News & Current Affairs/Regional) to refrain from telecasting content against state institutions including Judiciary and Armed Forces in their talk shows, news bulletins and live coverage of public gatherings.
Moreover, licensees have been sensitized of the fact that ridiculing state institutions especially Judiciary & Armed Forces is against PEMRA laws and various judgments of the Superior Courts.
The PEMRA has been repeatedly urging its licensees to follow the Authority’s laws and court orders in letter and spirit and refrain from airing slanderous campaign and content against any state institution, as airing of such content, prima facie is deemed as propaganda.
The Authority has also directed all satellite TV channels to ensure installation of an effective delay mechanism in their transmission especially while covering public gatherings, rallies and constitute an independent editorial board in compliance of Electronic Media (Advertising and Programmes) Code of Conduct 2015 as well as orders of Superior Courts.
PEMRA further warned the satellite 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 Authority has also warned the channels that in case of any intentional and unintentional violation committed, PEMRA law shall be invoked, leading to prohibition of programmes / talk shows under Section 27 without any notice, imposition of fine upto Rupees One Million under section 29, suspension, revocation or cancellation of license, closure of transmission under Section 30 of PEMRA Ordinance 2002 Amended PEMRA (Amendment) Act 2007.
