Response to PBC: Pemra says it does not interfere with content on TV

Pemra suggests that PBC directly contact TV channels for content covering lawyer activities

Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) on Tuesday informed the Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) that it does not interfere with the content on television channels in Pakistan, following a letter written by PBC Vice-Chairman (VC).

In his letter on July 15, VC Syed Amjad Shah asked Pemra to ensure coverage of lawyer protests against the two superior court judges  Justice Qazi Faez Isa and Justice K K Agha.

He also threatened to take legal action against Pemra on the grounds of discrimination.

The letter added that by suppressing the video footage of the protest, Pemra was breaching freedom of speech and expression.

PEMRA for making regional setup more vibrant

In response to PBC, Pemra said "all television channels are independent in devising their own editorial policies and programme content as per their judgment" and it is not responsible for the content shown on TV channels.

The letter read that "all licenses are obliged to follow provisions stated in Pemra laws and particularly Electronic Media (Programmes and Advertisements) code of conduct 2015 which is a consensual document and duly validated by the Honourable Supreme Court of Pakistan".

Pemra further suggested that PBC directly "contact all private satellite TV channels for the coverage of activities being carried out under the auspices of Pakistan Bar Council".

Letter to Pakistan Bar Council.