KARACHI, Oct 3: The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists has condemned the closure of FM-103 radio station in Balakot by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) at a time when the first anniversary of the worst earthquake in Pakistan’s history is approaching.

A statement issued by the PFUJ termed the action discriminatory and an attack on the freedom of expression.

In the past also, the statement said, the authorities had taken action against FM-103 in Lahore and the latest action was an attempt to silence the voice of dissent because the radio had been critical of government’s failure in the affected areas and broadcast stories about alleged misuse of funds meant for rehabilitation.

The statement said that if Pemra or any other government agency had any objection to any programme of FM-103, they had the option to take them to court in accordance with the law.

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