On August 18, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar said the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) had registered a First Information Report (FIR) in the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) corruption case after a detailed inquiry confirmed the seriousness of the allegations. He was speaking at a meeting of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting, chaired by MNA Pullain Baloch at PEMRA headquarters.

Tarar explained that FIA investigations differ from routine police complaints, as they require thorough examination before establishing cognizable offenses. He added that some individuals linked to the case attempted to use political influence for reinstatement. Still, APP management, under Managing Director Muhammad Asim Khichi, resisted pressure and acted firmly against corruption.

The minister praised Khichi for his integrity, noting that he stood firm despite political pressure. Tarar assured the committee that strict action would be taken without discrimination and said he was personally monitoring FIA’s progress to ensure transparency.

The minister also briefed the committee on the financial difficulties faced by Pakistan Television (PTV) after the withdrawal of subsidies, rising production costs, and reliance on foreign producers for sports coverage. He said PTV Sports continued to lead in ratings, while PTV World was being revamped, and PTV Home was being considered for outsourcing.

Committee members expressed concern over delays in PTV salaries and pensions. Ministry officials informed the committee that payments were cleared up to June 30, 2025, but the discontinuation of the Rs 35 license fee had worsened the crisis. They said the Finance Division had committed Rs 11 billion annually, to be released quarterly, while arrears were under review.

The committee also discussed proposed amendments to PEMRA laws, the regulation of OTT platforms, and FM radio licensing. PEMRA Chairman Saleem Baig said excessive censorship would curb diversity, and pre-screening of dramas was impractical. Lawmakers stressed that dramas should reflect social realities, while officials confirmed that draft rules on OTT platforms were awaiting cabinet approval. The meeting concluded with prayers for victims of recent floods in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan.