ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has implemented a ban on the broadcast of content featuring 11 individuals who have been categorized as ‘fugitives’. PEMRA officials stated that the fugitive individuals are wanted by the law and are prohibited from appearing on television broadcasts.
The ban applies to the following individuals: Syed Akbar Hussain, Sabir Shakir, Moeed Pirzada, Wajahat Saeed, Adil Farooq Raja, Haider Raza Mehdi, Shaheen Sehbai, Ali Nawaz Awan, Farrukh Habib, Murad Saeed, and Hammad Azhar.
PEMRA has issued a directive to prevent the appearance of these individuals on television. It has also prohibited any news coverage related to them.
Earlier, the Pakistan Senate passed the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) Amendment Bill 2023. Originally introduced by Federal Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, the bill faced significant opposition and was subsequently withdrawn. However, it was later reintroduced following consultations with journalists and stakeholders.
The Bill
Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Marriyum Aurangzeb presented amendments to the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2023, which were subsequently approved by the National Assembly.
The amendments include modifications to various sections of the bill to enhance fairness, transparency, and independence in the rating of TV channels by broadcasters.
An amendment introduced in clause 2 seeks to ensure that broadcasters receive equitable, clear, and unbiased ratings for their television channels.
In another proposed amendment, a new sub-section is suggested to be added after sub-section (3) in Section 4. This new sub-section underscores the regulatory authority’s responsibility to register rating companies. This move aims to ensure impartial and transparent ratings for licensees.
The proposed changes also involve amending clause 8 of the bill, as recommended by the standing committee. This amendment pertains to Section 20 of Ordinance XIII of 2002. The suggested alteration involves including additional content provided by the licensee, apart from the preamble. The licensee would also be required to submit an annual compliance report to the authority.
The purpose of these amendments is to strengthen the regulatory framework concerning electronic media in Pakistan. They aim to guarantee that ratings are conducted with fairness and independence.
