The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) on October 13 directed all satellite television channels to avoid broadcasting, rebroadcasting or providing live coverage of “unfortunate/unpleasant incidents,” including explosions, firing and terrorist attacks.
The directive reinforces a similar prohibition issued in February 2023 and requires channels to broadcast only verified information warranted by relevant government departments or law enforcement agencies.
According to the notification, broadcasters must use a time-delay mechanism and establish independent editorial boards in line with PEMRA regulations, a 2018 Supreme Court judgment in a suo motu case and a 2022 Islamabad High Court order.
PEMRA warned that violations could result in legal action under Sections 29-A, 30 and 33 of the PEMRA Ordinance 2002.
The directive comes amid heightened tensions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa following the imposition of governor’s rule and emergency measures. Protests against the measures in Bara tehsil reportedly turned violent, with government buildings set on fire and clashes between demonstrators and riot police.
