ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has suspended a Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) notification that required defense analysts to seek approval from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) before appearing on television programs.
The notification, issued in 2019, mandated that only retired armed forces officers could discuss defense-related matters on television, and their participation was contingent upon ISPR clearance.
Justice Babar Sattar issued a written order on Thursday, suspending the notification until the court reaches a final verdict in the case. The decision came during a hearing where PEMRA’s senior lawyer was absent due to illness, and the assisting lawyer requested an adjournment.
Based on the arguments presented, the court ruled to temporarily suspend the notification. The IHC clarified in its order that the suspension would remain in effect until the case is resolved.
The next hearing has been scheduled for February 11.
