Pemra slaps Geo News with 15-day transmission suspension, what happened?
The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) said the content could hurt the religious sentiments of viewers. The regulator issued the order to the Chief Executive Officer of Independent Media Corporation on June 28. It said the licence issued for Geo News had been suspended for 15 days under Section 30 of the Pemra Ordinance 2002.
According to the regulator, the special transmission raised serious regulatory concerns because of its religious, cultural and social impact. Pemra said the aired content was “liable to hurt the religious sentiments of viewers”.
The authority stated that the broadcast did not meet the responsibilities required under Sections 20(b), 20(c), 20(d) and 20(f) of the Pemra Ordinance. These provisions require TV channels to protect national, cultural, social and religious values and avoid content that promotes religious discrimination or sectarianism.
Pemra also said the transmission was “also inconsistent” with its June 15 directive regarding the “Observance of Sanctity of the Holy Month of Muharramul Haram”. The regulator considered this an additional reason for taking immediate action.
Under the order, Geo News’ transmission will remain suspended on satellite and all distribution networks and platforms for 15 days. All distribution service licensees and operators have been directed to implement the decision without delay.
The regulator has also referred the matter to its Council of Complaints. The council will examine the case, hold a hearing and recommend whether any further regulatory action is required under the law.
Also read: From hip-hop to Islam: How Khalila Lister built a global speaking empire
Pemra further instructed Geo News to conduct an internal inquiry into the editorial, monitoring and compliance failures that led to the broadcast. The channel has also been asked to submit its findings, along with corrective and preventive measures, during the hearing.
The decision shows that Pemra is closely monitoring television content, especially during religious occasions. The outcome of the Council of Complaints’ review may determine whether any further action is taken against the broadcaster.
