PEMRA tells channels to avoid obscene, controversial content in new directives

The media watchdog says soap operas and morning shows should be in conformity with the local ethics and traditions

The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) has directed television channels to avoid content in their soap operas and morning shows which may lead to inciting violence, sectarianism or hurting religious sentiments of the viewers.

"Television channels should implement the Supreme Court's Electronic Media Code of Conduct 2015 and observe caution while selecting material for broadcasting," the media watchdog said in a statement on Thursday.

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According to the directives, channel operators should be "cautious in selecting content for soap operas relating to religion, sects, nationalist views and other sensitive issues."

Content inciting violence and negativity should also be avoided, and if necessary, should be broadcast for the minimum amount of time. Television channels, the directives added, should refrain from broadcasting any material which may be insulting to any specific religion, community or sect and may give rise to sectarianism.



The authority observed that the soap operas are not only negating social and ethical norms, but sometimes also resulting in giving rise to social unrest and chaos.

"Complaints and feedback of the viewers suggest that the content in the soap operas do not reflect the Pakistani society and are becoming vulgar and inappropriate with every passing day," the statement said.

"Further, soap operas are routinely containing content which is against the local and Islamic traditions, apparently aimed at creating chaos and uncertainty in the society and weaken religious beliefs."



Regarding morning shows, Pemra said these, in addition to the above instructions, should only invite those speakers who are experts on matters relating to religion, education, health and financial issues. Content based on black magic or cult should also be avoided, the statement maintained. "The channels should take into account all segments of the society while creating content for the shows."

The authority also asked channels to refrain from broadcasting content during Ramazan that maybe obscene, vulgar, insulting, unethical, undemocratic or against Islam, Pakistan, national security, or the founders of the nation.

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