PEMRA banned live coverage of PTI march, Direction to TV stations

Islamabad: (Staff Reporter) The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) prohibited the live coverage of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) long march. PEMRA has directed TV stations not to broadcast live programs, including the PTI’s long march and speeches by its leaders.

According to the PEMRA notification issued on October 28, “TV channels were previously directed not to telecast the program live, but compliance was very poor.”

Furthermore today’s transmission was monitored, and it was discovered that statements critical of institutions were broadcast live during the speech, which is in violation of the court order and the code of conduct.

Moreover Television stations have been ordered not to broadcast material that (knowingly or unknowingly) defames state institutions, and to issue directives to their editorial boards, directors, bureaus, and reporters in this regard.

Meanwhile Noncompliance with the guidelines, according to PEMRA, could result in legal action, including license suspension and cancellation.