PEMRA asks STV channels to comply with Electronic Media Code of Conduct 2015

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Electronic Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has issued directives to all satellite TV channels, reminding them to review their entertainment and news content in accordance with the provisions of Electronic Media Code of Conduct 2015.

While issuing advice to News and Current Affairs channels on Wednesday, PEMRA has suggested that they refrain from any dramatisation of news based on crimes, sexual abuse, and accidents and ensure compliance with the provisions enshrined in section 8 of Electronic Media Code of Conduct 2015.

Furthermore, TV channels have also been advised to avoid unnecessary sensationalism while reporting any news and refrain from airing images of victim and disclosure of personal details. In case, the airing of such details is inevitable, authentic and verified details may be given in consultation with the concerned agencies/department. Besides, channels have also been sensitised, not to repeat news/reports unnecessarily as viewers find it, irksome.

Moreover, entertainment channels are advised to uphold social, Islamic and ethical values of Pakistani society. Channels have also been asked to ensure that the themes/plot of their TV dramas are not contradictory to Islamic and social values of Pakistani culture so that healthy entertainment can be guaranteed to the viewers.