ISLAMABAD: National Assembly (NA) Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting has directed Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) to curtail the duration of relaying dramas and other programs based on Indian culture by TV channels besides stopping display of objectionable advertisements by them.

Committee met here under its chairperson Mrs Belum Hasnain Thursday. Giving briefing to the committee, Pemra told all Pakistani channels were allowed to screen 10 percent foreign programs but most of them contained Indian stuff.

The standing committee directed Pemra and ministry for culture and broadcasting to evolve policy on curtailment of duration of screening programs by TV channels based on Indian culture saying these programs were adversely affecting young generation and they had forgotten their own culture.

Opposing the plea for closure of Indian program, committee member Farah Naz Isphahani said the need was there that improvement be brought in Pakistani programs. TV channels should display programs based on social and economic problems rather than devoting maximum time to political programs.

Information secretary told policy was being devised in this regard. Pemra was facing difficulties in implementation of its rules and regulations as whenever any action is considered, the respective TV channel seeks stay order from the courts, he added. Chairman Pemra told the committee over 200 illegal FM Radio stations had been shut down in the areas affected in war on terror.
Source: The News
Date:2/11/2011