IHC summons private TV CEO, anchor

ISLAMABAD: Taking notice of a programme on Valentine’s Day, Justice Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui of Islamabad High Court (IHC) Tuesday directed the chief executive officer (CEO), anchor and the participants to personally appear before it to explain as to why contempt proceedings may not be initiated against them and why Pemra may not be directed to initiate proceedings for cancellation of the channel licence.

The bench also directed the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) to make arrangements for displaying the program in the court on Feb 27. The order said one part of the program relating to the order passed by the court against promotion of Valentine's Day was not only ridiculed and disrespected, but was also discussed in a very derogatory manner.

The court said without showing any respect or keeping in view the restrictions imposed by Article 19 of the Constitution of Islamic Republic of Pakistan, 1973 i.e. freedom of speech, etc. the participants crossed all the limits of decency and morality.

The hearing was adjourned to Feb 27.