ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) has directed all TV channels and FM Radio and Cable TV licensees to duly observe the sanctity of Muharram-ul-Haram.
The authority has warned against relaying or distributing any programme violating the sanctity of the holy month. The TV channels in particular have been reminded of their utmost responsibility and directed to exercise extra care while conducting religious programmes and avoid inciting or fanning religious discrimination, intolerance and hatred in any manner. The circular stated that no programme shall be aired or distributed in contravention of the Pemra Code of Conduct, which inter-alia refrains from passing derogatory remarks about any religion or sect/community or uses words contemptuous of religious sects and ethnic groups or which promotes communal and sectarian attitudes or disharmony. Similarly, no programme would be tolerated which may provoke hatred against an individual or a group on the basis of race, ethnicity and religious orientation.
The electronic media has also been directed to craft special programmes persuading viewers to shun sectarian activities and discard animosity, hatred, malevolence and differences by following the great Islamic principles of human values such as faith, tolerance, courage, brotherhood and fraternity for the prosperity and welfare of the country as well as the Muslim Ummah. The chairman Pemra said any dis-conformity to the directive would be taken seriously that might result in imposition of heavy fines and suspension/revocation of licenses of violators.
