Pemra’s allegations false: PBA

PBA assures none of its members broadcasting any programs violating PEMRA's rules.

The Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA) has said that the regulatory watchdog of the media industry, Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) falsely accused the entire broadcasting industry of airing ‘derogatory, humiliating programmes purposely meant for character assassination of individuals and organisations’.

Pemra had issued a press release on May 9, warning of stringent action against television channels that air programmes which violate its rules and regulations and are detrimental to society.

PBA assured that none of its members were broadcasting any such programs and offered to sit down and negotiate with Pemra over its concerns. PBA claimed that Pemra should refrain from making such vague and general accusations against the whole industry without providing any specifics.

The broadcasting body assured that all its members followed strict editorial policies to ensure that no vulgar or indecent programs that may offend the moral or religious sensibilities of viewers are aired.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 16^th, 2012.