PEMRA Directs TV Channels to avoid live coverage of terror incidents, explosions and other tragic events
The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has issued fresh directives to all satellite television channels, instructing them to refrain from the live broadcast, rebroadcast and extensive coverage of unpleasant or tragic incidents, including explosions, fires, shootings and terrorist attacks.
According to an official order issued by the media regulator, satellite TV channels have been directed to air only verified information that has been confirmed by the relevant government departments or law enforcement agencies. The move is aimed at ensuring responsible reporting and preventing the dissemination of unverified information during emergency situations, said a DGPR press release.
PEMRA further instructed all licence holders to make effective use of the prescribed broadcast delay mechanism during transmissions. The authority emphasised that broadcasters must adhere to the relevant provisions of PEMRA laws, the judgement issued by the Supreme Court of Pakistan in Suo Motu Case No. 28 of 2018, and the Islamabad High Court’s order dated September 5, 2022, in CMA No. 102 of 2022.
The regulator also directed television channels to ensure the establishment of an Independent Editorial Board in compliance with the legal framework and court orders. Broadcasters have additionally been instructed to strictly implement the prescribed standard operating procedures regarding delayed transmission of content.
PEMRA warned that any violation of the directives would invite legal action under Sections 29-A, 30 and 33 of the PEMRA Ordinance, 2002, as amended. The authority stressed that compliance with the instructions is mandatory for all licence holders operating satellite television channels across the country.
The regulator noted that similar directives had previously been issued to all satellite television channels on February 20, 2023, underscoring PEMRA’s continued emphasis on responsible electronic media coverage, particularly during incidents involving public safety and national security concerns.