August 10, 2022 – The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has directed TV channels to stop airing “propaganda, misinformation and disinformation” against state institutions.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the media regulatory authority stated that it has observed a trend on channels where programme anchors, guests and analysts spread misinformation and disinformation against state institutions. The statement added that such trends not only cast aspersions on state institutions, but also constitute a propaganda campaign against them.
“Airing of such content is in violation of the directives issued by the authority, provisions of PEMRA Electronic Media (Programmes and Advertisements) Code of Conduct 2015, and the principles laid down by the superior courts,” said PEMRA.
— Report PEMRA (@reportpemra) August 9, 2022
The authority further instructed TV channels to install an effective delay mechanism in their transmission and ensure that an independent editorial board is constituted to prevent their platform from being used by anyone spreading misinformation and disinformation against state institutions.
In case of violation, PEMRA warned, legal action will be initiated against Sections 27 (prohibition of broadcast media or distribution service operation), 29 (power to authorise inspection), 30 (power to suspend or revoke the licence), and 33 (offences and penalties) of the PEMRA (Amendment) Act, 2007.
Earlier in May, PEMRA directed TV channels to avoid airing “malicious” content against the Pakistan Army and judiciary while telecasting talk shows, news bulletins or live coverage of public gatherings. According to PEMRA, licensees were repeatedly urged to abide by the rules set by the regulatory authority and follow court orders to refrain from airing slanderous content as it would be deemed as “propaganda”.
PEMRA warned that violations would lead to suspension of transmission under Section 27 of the PEMRA (Amendment) Act, 2007 without any notice and a fine of Rs1 million under Section 29.
