Info minister says no ‘political censorship’ in state-run TV, radio henceforth

• Minister Chaudhry says PTV, Radio Pakistan can ‘now enjoy complete editorial independence’

ISLAMABAD: Information and Broadcasting Minister Fawad Chaudhry on Tuesday said that the government has “lifted all political censorship in state-run media outlets” in accordance with Prime Minister Imran Khan’s vision for a free and independent media.

The minister further stated that Pakistan Television (PTV) and Radio Pakistan will now enjoy complete editorial independence over the content they produce. He added that an English-language radio channel would be introduced as well, particularly for the international audience.

Moreover, he took to Twitter and said, “the government has also issued directives for the complete editorial independence of state media.”

“As per vision of @ImranKhanPTI Ended political censorship on PTV, clear instructions issued for a complete editorial independence on PTV and Radio Pakistan, drastic changes [will] be visible in Information Dept in coming 3 months Inshallah,” he posted.

He asked the Information Ministry to “play a proactive role in promoting a positive image of Pakistan globally and directed concerned organisations to make earnest efforts to generate revenue by improving their programming and content”.

Khan in his first public speech after the July 25 election, broadcast Sunday, August 19, had promised wide-ranging reforms in government institutions with a view to making them independent and free from political corruption.