Court urges media to adhere to the code of conduct of polling coverage. PHOTO: AFP
The court; however, directed television channels to refrain from breaking news relating to the elections, which could create panic or worry among the masses, Express News reported.
The LHC issued the verdict in its response to a petition asking for permission to air or publish unofficial results.
Election coverage: ECP issues code of conduct for media
Earlier on Tuesday, the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) barred television channels from airing unofficial poll results, prompting the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) to issue a 12-point code of conduct for the coverage.
According to the code, the print and electronic media were only allowed to telecast or publish election results once issued by the respective presiding and returning officers, or the ECP.
TV channels banned from airing unofficial poll results
The ECP had earlier asked Pemra to penalise media outlets violating the rule, and requested Parliament to give legal cover to its code of conduct since the commission lacked any power to punish the violators.
Polling for the first phase of local government elections in Sindh and Punjab will be held on October 31.
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