KARACHI, June 17: The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) - Sindh Region has initiated a drive against illegal cable TV operators in the province. For a start, PEMRA's team has launched its campaign in four districts namely Thatta, Badin, Hyderabad and Nawabshah.

It was pointed out that under PEMRA rules/regulations 2002, cable TV operation was a licensed activity, and that operating a station without licence from PEMRA was an offence under sections 19 (2) and 33 (3) of PEMRA Ordinance 2002.

Regional Director, PEMRA Sindh Waseem Ahmed, has directed all illegal cable TV operators of Sindh region to get themselves registered with PEMRA, and obtain licence for their cable TV operations immediately to avoid any further legal action. Cable TV defaulters have also been asked to deposit their dues including renewal fees, subscriber charges etc to PEMRA.

Responding to complaints against 'unscrupulous cable TV operators' who were relaying 'proscribed channels (MM, MM2, MNET)' obscene and pornographic contents, he warned them to stop forthwith, otherwise the authority would take legal action, leading to imprisonment - extendable to four years - or up to Rs1 million fine or both, in addition to confiscation of equipment used.

Waseem informed cable TV subscribers that they could contact the council of complaint, PEMRA Sindh region on UAN 111-736-111 to lodge complaints against poor service of cable TV operators. -APP