Islamabad High Court (IHC) Monday directed Pakistan Electronic Media and Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) to ensure that the TV channels implement code of ethics regarding Ramzan.
Justice Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui of IHC heard the case filed by the Pakistan Broadcasting Association (PBA). During the proceeding, the bench also directed PEMRA to fulfill its responsibility regarding monitoring of TV channels’ transmission during Ramzan.
The court also directed the authority to take appropriate steps to ensure implementation on decision of allocation of ten per cent of the TV transmissions for public welfare messages. The court adjourned the hearing of the case until July 4. It may be mentioned here that PBA had challenged the decision of IHC in Supreme Court regarding constitution of monitoring committee for TV programmes and order to broadcast award winning programmes after Iftar and Traveh time. The SC had sent the case to IHC for hearing.
Meanwhile, Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has issued show cause notices to Aaj TV for showing programmes aired by foreign entities. The channel has been asked to file a reply within seven days, by June 12, 2017.
PEMRA has directed M/s Recorder Television Network (Aaj TV) to explain its position over broadcasting BBC programme, titled “Sairbeen” which is aired on weekdays (from Monday to Friday) at 11pm and Voice of America’s “View 360” which is also aired on weekdays at 7pm.
Airing foreign content is a clear violation of Section 20 (i) of PEMRA Ordinance 2002 (Amendment Act 2007). According to the section, no licensee of PEMRA can sell, transfer or assign the rights without prior permission of the authority.
PEMRA has called the representative of AaJ TV on the above-mentioned date for personal hearing. In case of non-compliance, ex-parte proceedings shall be initiated against the channel.
