ISLAMABAD: In an unprecedented display of hasty lawmaking ahead of elections, the government passed a record-breaking 54 bills in just four days. Notably, media regulations and university establishment were part of the fast-paced legislation. The opposition has expressed concerns about the lack of depth in scrutiny and consultation for each bill, given the rising election fervor.
During a whirlwind session, the National Assembly achieved another feat, sailing through 12 bills on Wednesday. The crucial legislations approved were the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Amendment) Bill 2023, and the Press Council of Pakistan (Amendment) Bill, 2023.
Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Maryam Aurangzeb, moved the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2023. This legislation aims to benefit journalists and promote a free and responsible media environment.
The Information Minister introduced the Press Council of Pakistan (Amendment) Bill, 2023. The bill aims to replace the term “Government” with “secretary of the division to which business of the council stands allocated” in section 8, clause (xiii) of the Press Council of Pakistan Ordinance, 2002 (XCVII of 2002).
Both bills underwent thorough examination by the Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting. Upon presenting the reports, the House approved them during the third reading.
Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2023
Several proposed amendments were put forward by the Information Minister for the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2023. One such amendment was suggested for clause 2, where a new paragraph (iv) would be added after paragraph (iii). The new section aims to ensure fair, transparent, and independent ratings for broadcasters and their TV channels.
Another proposal was to add a new clause 3A after clause 3. This new clause suggests amending Section 4 of Ordinance XIII of 2002. It states that the authority, by registering rating companies, will ensure the issuance of fair, transparent, and independent ratings to the licensees.
The minister also recommended substituting clause 8 of the legislation. The proposed substitution would modify Section 20 of the Ordinance by adding specific content requirements and restrictions for licensees. It includes provisions related to disinformation, advertising breaks during regular programs, and the consistency of content on electronic media platforms.
Furthermore, the minister moved an amendment for clause 11. This amendment suggests the addition of a new sub-section (12) in proposed section 26. As per the proposal, each council will compile and submit an annual report to the Authority, detailing the licensees’ compliance with the Code of Conduct.
The House passed these amendments, marking significant changes to the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority and its functioning.
