NA panel calls for code of conduct for state TV anchors

ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting on Thursday recommended stern action against a state TV anchor for making derogatory remarks against a particular ethnicity, a move that drew widespread criticism and distress.

Chaired by MNA Pullain Baloch, the committee expressed strong disapproval of the incident, saying the response by PTV management had not adequately addressed the damage caused to national unity. It recommended recovery of damages from the anchor and his blacklisting from all state-owned media platforms. The panel further called for a comprehensive code of conduct for PTV anchors to prevent recurrence.

Secretary Information informed the committee that the anchor’s contract had first been suspended and later terminated after his vlog came to light. She stated that no individual should be allowed to undermine inter-provincial harmony. The committee was also briefed on the Department of Digital Communications (DCD), which was described as a frontline body for safeguarding national security, countering disinformation, and promoting religious harmony. Members appreciated its role in projecting Pakistan’s narrative after the Pulwama conflict and against extremist propaganda.

On other matters, the committee directed the ministry to expedite the appointment of a Pakistan Information Commission member from civil society within two months. It also ordered strict financial controls in APP to prevent a repeat of reported embezzlement.

The meeting was attended by MNAs Nadeem Abbas, Kiran Imran Dar, Asia Naz Tanoli, Kiran Haider, Salahuddin Junejo, Sehar Kamran, Syed Aminul Haque, Rana Ansar, Shaheen (via Zoom), Barrister Daniyal Chaudhry, Parliamentary Secretary for Information, and senior ministry officials.