Pemra approves process of DTH licensing

ISLAMABAD: In an important step forward for the media development, Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra), in its 114th meeting, approved on Wednesday the process of Pakistan’s first DTH licensing.

The DTH licensing, that will introduce a new generation of technology and services for the viewers, will also bring investment to media industry and generate employment. The process was approved on the recommendations of an in-house committee, legal due diligence report and the finding of an online public consultation process. The Pemra will announce a detailed timeline once the gazette notification of the regulations is issued in this regard.

Pemra will ensure a transparent mechanism to complete the DTH process by inviting the media persons, representatives of NAB, FIA and intelligence agencies to be part of the process from the very beginning. Pemra chairman has written letters to the heads of the state organisations to nominate their representatives to be part of Pemra team overseeing this process.

The authority also approved the suspension of the licence of M/s Fortune Marketing Pvt. Ltd. “Din News” for non-payment of its annual dues for years. The channel was given numerous chances for clearing their dues and comply with the orders of Pemra but it did not respond to the reminders.

“Din News” was also fined and issued warnings and show cause notices for casting aspersions on judiciary which is violation of Constitution, and Pemra Laws. “Din News” also failed to deposit fine and air apology despite repeated reminders. Considering the facts the authority approved the immediate suspension of the violator.

The meeting was chaired by the Chairman Absar Alam. Other members present were Syed Imran Gardezi, Secretary, Ministry of Information, Broadcasting and National Heritage, Arif Ahmed Khan, Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr. Ismail Shah, Chairman PTA, Mrs. Shaheen Habibullah (Member Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) and Mrs. Nargis Nasir (Member Punjab).