ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) Amendment Bill 2023, was introduced in the National Assembly session.
Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Marriyum Aurangzeb, highlighted that the new amendments in the PEMRA bill aim to enhance the credibility of news content and tackle disinformation and misinformation. The bill includes a definition of fake news to ensure objectivity. Additionally, media organizations have been given representation in the bill.
The government had previously announced its intention to introduce changes to the PEMRA laws to address fake news. The decision was made during a meeting between the information minister and a delegation of the media’s Joint Action Committee in April 2022. The committee agreed that fake news poses a threat to national security interests and societal cohesion.
Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb emphasized that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is committed to upholding the freedom of expression. He considers it a fundamental right for both the media and the public. She criticized previous laws, such as the Peca Ordinance and the proposed Pakistan Media Development Authority (PMDA). Those laws were seen as oppressive and detrimental to journalism and democracy.
The minister expressed concern over the economic impact on the media during the past four years. He pledged to support journalists in their efforts to rebuild and recover from the challenges faced by the industry.
President Calls For Farewell Sessions Of National Assembly And Senate
Ealier, President Arif Alvi has called for separate farewell sessions of both houses of the Parliament, namely the National Assembly and the Senate. The National Assembly’s session will take place on July 20 at 5 pm. The Senate’s session will convene on July 24 at 3 pm.
The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs has sent a proposal to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to schedule sessions. For the Lower House of Parliament on either July 20 or July 21.
