Defense Analysts
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has initiated a review regarding the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) and its assertion of exclusive authority in designating defense analysts.
This inquiry arises in the context of a case challenging a notification issued by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA), which restricts defense analysis on television channels solely to retired military officers.
The court, led by Justice Babar Sattar, has issued a formal written order related to the case, seeking further clarification on several key issues.
In its proceedings, the IHC has requested access to the original records concerning PEMRA’s notification and has demanded an explanation of the legal basis that supports ISPR’s claim of being the exclusive authority in this regard.
The court has specifically called upon the Ministry of Defence to clarify the legal standing of ISPR, particularly focusing on why it considers itself the sole body entitled to designate defense analysts.
During the hearings, the court expressed skepticism about PEMRA’s authority to regulate content on television channels, particularly regarding the pre-approval of analysts’ opinions.
The lawyer representing PEMRA referenced Section 20 of the PEMRA Ordinance, which outlines the responsibilities of TV channels concerning national security, integrity, and sovereignty.
However, the court raised questions about the relevance of pre-clearing analysts’ opinions to national security and sovereignty, suggesting that the connection was not sufficiently clear.
The Islamabad High Court has granted the PEMRA lawyer additional time to respond to these queries, emphasizing the need for clarity on why PEMRA deemed it necessary to issue such a restrictive circular.
Additionally, the court has inquired whether there was a specific request from the armed forces or ISPR that prompted the issuance of this notification.
It is worth noting that PEMRA issued the controversial notification on April 4, 2019, limiting the scope of defense analysis to individuals with military backgrounds, a move that has drawn criticism and calls for transparency in the regulations governing media content related to defense matters.
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