We don’t air vulgar content, TV channels do: Cable operators

We have decided to boycott all unethical and irreligious content, say cable operators.

ISLAMABAD: The All Pakistan Cable Operators Association (APCOA) claimed that an “organised conspiracy” is being hatched through newspapers, alleging them of spreading vulgarity.

“A few days ago, a column was published in a newspaper which alleged that cable operators were guilty of airing vulgar content…but this is a conspiracy,” APCOA chairman Kamran Arain said while speaking to the media on Friday.

“Pemra [Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority] should see that the owners of that newspaper are also running a channel which is airing all sorts of vulgar content… Pemra sends us notices, initiates operations against us, but can’t it see the TV channels?” Arain questioned.

He added that on the publication of one column in a newspaper, Pemra raided their offices and confiscated their equipment, but “we are the ones providing inexpensive and standard entertainment… There wouldn’t have been any Pakistani channels if it weren’t for us”.

Cable operators do not air anything unethical and if somebody is doing it, people should complain about it, Arain said while adding that the association is willing to take action against all cable operators who might be violating laws.

“We request Pemra to not join hands with TV channels and investigate only on merit. They should also inquire against TV channels… The channels keep airing anything they want calling it ‘freedom of press’, but the cable operators are always targeted because we are not high-ups.”

The chairman added that the cable operators have decided to boycott all unethical and irreligious content, and are hoping to be supported by the people, judiciary and religious parties in this regard.