On August 16, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar called for centralising the film certification process, introducing reforms in Pakistan Television Corporation, revamping state-run channels, and addressing issues faced by journalists. Speaking at a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting chaired by Senator Syed Ali Zafar, he said promoting quality entertainment was essential to foster constructive attitudes and counter intolerance in society.

Discussing the “Motion Picture (Amendment) Bill 2024,” Tarar said the proposed legislation would empower the relevant minister to approve the Film Certification Board to avoid delays caused by repeated cabinet approvals.

He noted that, following the 18th Constitutional Amendment, the federal government’s role was limited to film imports, while provinces conducted certification under their own laws. He stressed the need for a uniform approach to certification and stronger coordination between federal and provincial authorities.

Tarar highlighted that Pakistani films had achieved significant commercial success overseas, including in Canada, and stressed that such productions should not face unnecessary obstacles. The committee approved the agenda relating to the censor board.

On Pakistan Television Corporation, Tarar told the committee that PTV’s screen quality had improved. He said PTV Sports had secured Asia Cup broadcasting rights for the next two years, with negotiations ongoing with the Pakistan Cricket Board for a government-to-government arrangement. PTV Home was being considered for outsourcing, while PTV World was undergoing a revamp to meet modern broadcasting standards.

He acknowledged financial challenges faced by PTV after the withdrawal of subsidies, which delayed payments to the International Cricket Council, but said the rights were eventually secured. Tarar noted that PTV Sports’ ratings were double those of private sports channels and that reforms were being implemented to ensure timely payment of salaries and pensions.

On the Shalimar Recording and Broadcasting Company, the minister said three months’ salaries had been paid to employees and that a business plan for its revival had been prepared. He added that he had personally appeared in court to follow up on the matter.

The meeting also reviewed cases under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act. Tarar said he had discussed grievances of journalists with Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists’ Afzal Butt and proposed forming a sub-committee to investigate. The chair supported the proposal and directed that the relevant RPO and SHO be summoned at the next meeting.

Senators Irfan Siddiqui, Pervaiz Rashid, Jan Muhammad Buledi, Sarmad Ali, and Syed Waqar Mehdi attended the session along with Information Secretary Ambreen Jan, Additional Secretary Ashfaq Khalil, and other ministry officials.