PEMRA reiterates ban on TLP coverage on TV, radio

Media watchdog bars satellite channels, radio stations and distribution networks from coverage of the banned outfit

ISLAMABAD:

The Pakistan Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) reiterated on Thursday its ban on the proscribed Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) following the latter's insistence to launch a long march towards Islamabad.

The top media watchdog issued a notification, the directives will be applicable to the satellites channels, FM radio stations and all other distribution networks.

While issuing the orders, Pemra referred to the April 15 letter of the Interior Ministry, which had declared the TLP a proscribed outfit, as well as its earlier notification banning its coverage.

"It is reiterated that regulation 18(h) of Pemra (Television Broadcast Station Operation) Regulation, 2012 and clause 16 of the Electronic Media Code of Conduct, 2015 requires that the programmes shall conform to the laws of the country. Further, Clause 3 (3) of Electronic Media Code of Conduct, 2015 prohibits media coverage of proscribed organisations," it said.

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The top media regulatory authority added: "Keeping in view the reasons stated above, in exercise of the powers conferred under Section 27 of Pemra Ordinance, 2002 as amended by Pemra Amendment Act, 2007 all satellite TV channels, FM radio stations and distribution service networks (Cobb TV Operators, IPTV) are hereby directed to stop the media coverage of proscribed organisation Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan."

It was in April that Pemra first placed a ban on the organisation after it was banned by the government.

The fresh orders came as thousands of supporters of the banned outfit neared Gujranwala city in Punjab as they continued their march towards the federal capital, disrupting routine life along the route of the rally and creating severe difficulties for the masses.

At least five police officials have been martyred in clashes against the banned organisation since October 27. Another official who was injured yesterday succumbed to his injuries today.