The Pakistan Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA), following Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) insistence to launch a long march towards Islamabad, reiterated its ban on the organization on Thursday (28 October).
According to a statement issued by the top media, the rules would apply to satellite channels, FM radio stations, and all other distribution networks.
PEMRA relied on the Interior Ministry’s April 15 letter declaring the TLP a proscribed outfit, as well as its prior notification banning its coverage, when issuing the orders.
The letter said that “It is reiterated that regulation 18(h) of PEMRA (Television Broadcast Station Operation) Regulation, 2012 and clause 16 of the Electronic Media Code of Conduct, 2015 requires that the programs shall conform to the laws of the country. Further, Clause 3 (3) of Electronic Media Code of Conduct, 2015 prohibits media coverage of proscribed organizations.”
Furthermore, PEMRA added that “Keeping in view the reasons stated above, in the exercise of the powers conferred under Section 27 of PEMRA Ordinance, 2002 as amended by PEMRA Amendment Act, 2007 all satellite TV channels, FM radio stations and distribution service networks (Cobb TV Operators, IPTV) are hereby directed to stop the media coverage of proscribed organization Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan.”
PEMRA originally issued a ban on the organization in April, after the government had banned it.
The new directives came as hundreds of followers of the outlawed organization neared Gujranwala, Punjab, on their way to the federal capital, interrupting daily life along the rally’s route and causing major hardships for the public.
Since October 27, at least five police officers have been killed in fights with the proscribed organization. Another official, who was hurt the day before, died today because of his injuries.
Furthermore, The TLP, according to the government, will not be allowed to challenge the state’s writ and will be recognized as a “militant” organization rather than a religious party.
