ISLAMABAD: The electronic media regulator has initiated action against five news channels and has issued two show-cause notices to two leading channels, in an effort to discourage the use of slang and street language on screen.

The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) issued on Tuesday notices to the two channels for airing abusive, indecent and derogatory remarks and allegations banned under the Code of Conduct and National Action Plan.

The notices were contain the name of the programmes, their hosts and guests and the controversial comments. Pemra said that airing unedited material was unethical and in a violation of different laws.

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“The channels have been asked to explain why punitive action should not be taken against them and to explain their position on airing this highly objectionable material without any editorial check,” Pemra said.

The two channels have been directed to respond to the notices in 14 days. In case of non-compliance Pemra will take ex-parte decision against the accused.

Pemra also asked TV channels to support the National Action Plan and deny space on their channels to elements defending terror groups or trying to divert state institutions’ attention from the war on terror.

Published in Dawn, December 23rd, 2015