The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) has directed all satellite television channels to refrain from broadcasting or live-streaming footage of explosions, shootings and terrorist attacks. In an order dated October 13, the regulator instructed broadcasters to follow the restrictions when covering such incidents.
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According to the directive, channels must air only verified information provided by the relevant government departments or law enforcement agencies. Pemra also instructed broadcasters to use time-delay mechanisms effectively before transmitting potentially sensitive footage. The measures aim to ensure proper editorial review during coverage of violent incidents.
The regulator further directed television channels to establish independent editorial boards in accordance with Pemra laws and relevant court rulings. The order referred to a 2018 Supreme Court suo motu case and an Islamabad High Court order issued in 2022. Pemra also cited a similar directive it issued in February 2023.
Pemra warned that violations could lead to legal action under Sections 29-A, 30 and 33 of the Pemra Ordinance 2002. The directive places responsibility on broadcasters to verify information and follow prescribed editorial procedures before airing reports about security incidents.
The order comes amid heightened political tensions following the federal government’s imposition of emergency and governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The government cited what it described as the provincial administration’s disengagement from counterterrorism efforts. Tensions intensified after Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf announced a long march to Islamabad seeking the release of its jailed founder, Imran Khan.
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On Tuesday, a PTI protest in Bara tehsil turned violent, according to the report. Demonstrators reportedly set government buildings on fire and clashed with riot police while protesting the emergency measures. Pemra’s latest directive comes as authorities face security concerns and renewed political unrest in the province.