The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has revoked the license of ARY News for airing a speech by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan. According to PEMRA, the speech violated the regulatory body’s code of conduct and was therefore deemed inappropriate for broadcast.
The official statement
“Foregoing in view, the competent authority i.e. the Pemra chairman in the exercise of powers vested in Section 30(3) of the Pemra Ordinance 2002 as amended by Pemra (Amendment) Act 2007, hereby suspends broadcast satellite TV channel license conferred to M/s ARY Communications Ltd. (ARY News) with immediate effect, till further orders”
This move by PEMRA has sparked controversy, with many arguing that it infringes on freedom of speech and the media’s right to report on important political events. Others have criticized ARY News for violating the code of conduct and contributing to the spread of inflammatory political rhetoric.
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The revocation of ARY News’ license highlights the ongoing tension between Pakistan’s regulatory bodies and the media, as well as the need for a balanced approach that upholds both, freedom of speech and responsible journalism.
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