Pemra suspends TV channel's licence

Published August 31, 2020
Pemra also issued a show-cause notice to the channel, according to the release, directing it to reply within 14 days. — Dawn/File
Pemra also issued a show-cause notice to the channel, according to the release, directing it to reply within 14 days. — Dawn/File

The Pakistan Electronic Media Authority Regulatory Authority (Pemra) has suspended TV channel 24NewsHD's licence with "immediate effect" for "airing hate inciting content" during a special Muharram transmission, it emerged on Monday.

In a press release dated August 30, the regulatory body said it had issued an advisory to all television channels on Aug 20, directing them "not to air material that would harm inter-faith harmony or which was based on sectarianism and inciting hate".

It said TV channel 24NewsHD — which is part of Central Media Network Private Limited — aired "hate material during its special Muharram 10 transmission without exercising any editorial control" thus violating Pemra policies.

The authority added that it received complaints (regarding the transmission) after which it took "prompt action" and suspended the channel's licence under section 30(3) of the Pemra Ordinance.

Pemra also issued a show-cause notice to the channel, according to the release, directing it to reply within 14 days. "The channel has been given the opportunity to present its stance according to the law," it said.

However, its licence will remain suspended until completion of the inquiry, Pemra said.

Opinion

Editorial

Judiciary’s SOS
Updated 28 Mar, 2024

Judiciary’s SOS

The ball is now in CJP Isa’s court, and he will feel pressure to take action.
Data protection
28 Mar, 2024

Data protection

WHAT do we want? Data protection laws. When do we want them? Immediately. Without delay, if we are to prevent ...
Selling humans
28 Mar, 2024

Selling humans

HUMAN traders feed off economic distress; they peddle promises of a better life to the impoverished who, mired in...
New terror wave
Updated 27 Mar, 2024

New terror wave

The time has come for decisive government action against militancy.
Development costs
27 Mar, 2024

Development costs

A HEFTY escalation of 30pc in the cost of ongoing federal development schemes is one of the many decisions where the...
Aitchison controversy
Updated 27 Mar, 2024

Aitchison controversy

It is hoped that higher authorities realise that politics and nepotism have no place in schools.