Pemra asks TV channels not to air 'indecent content'.

Byline: Kalbe Ali

ISLAMABAD -- The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) issued an advice to all satellite TV channels on Friday over airing of content about World Women's Day, urging them to realise their 'obligation to uphold moral values'.

The advice said all satellite channels must ensure that programmes related to Women's Day, being observed on Sunday (March 8), conformed to Pemra laws and the Electronic Media (Programmes and Advertisements) Code of Conduct 2015.

The regulator referred to a recent decision by the Lahore High Court that allowed the observance of Women's Day in accordance with principles laid down in Article 19 of the Constitution.

The article says: 'Every citizen shall have the right to freedom of speech and expression, and there shall be freedom of the Press, subject to any reasonable restrictions imposed by law in their interest or the glory of Islam or the integrity, security or defence of Pakistan or any part thereof, friendly relations with foreign states, public order, decency or morality, or in relation to contempt of court, or incitement to an offence.'

The advice recalled that news channels had recently aired controversial content regarding the Aurat March, asking them to refrain from doing so.

'All satellite TV channels/licensees should be mindful of the fact that telecast of such controversial content is against commonly accepted standards of decency as well as religious, social and cultural norms and sentiments of public. FurtAhermore, airing of such vulgar/ inappropriate content is not suitable for viewing on TV channels.'

The National Assembly's Standing Committee on information and broadcasting gave a unanimous ruling...