Pemra issues show cause notices to channel

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Electronic Regulatory Authority (Pemra) Thursday issued two show cause notices to ARY News for casting aspersions against the armed forces of Pakistan in its programmes.

The first show cause was issued with regard to airing of special transmission on DawnLeaks report dated May 10, 2017. In the programme, Arshad Sharif, drew a comparison between withdrawal of a tweet by the ISPR and the 1971 tragedy.

“Drawing such a comparison is highly objectionable, derogatory and amounts to lowering the morale of Pakistan Army. The tragedy of 1971 is an unfortunate incident in Pakistan’s history as a large number of soldiers and officers laid down their lives while thousands of them were taken captive,” a Pemra statement said.

The authority said in the notice that there is no end to sacrifices by the gallant soldiers and officers of Pakistan Army. Even in the ongoing war against terrorism, more than 6,000 security personnel have been killed. At a time, when soldiers and officers are laying down their lives for their motherland, such comments are totally uncalled for and unconstitutional.

The second show cause was issued to the channel for casting aspersions on the armed forces of Pakistan in its programme dated May 16, 2017 by Arif Hameed Bhatti. The programme was aired in violation of the warning Pemra issued to TV channels on May 12, 2017 in which they were directed not to air unverified or baseless news against the armed forces or spread hatred and uncertainty.

Pemra has directed the channel management to file reply to both the notices by June 1, 2017. Pemra has also directed the Chief Executive Officer of the channel to appear in person for hearing on the above-mentioned date. The regulator has also sought details of the survey claimed by Mr Bhatti in ‘The Reporters’. In case of non-compliance, ex-parte proceedings shall be initiated against the TV channel.