Senate Panel Criticizes Imran Khan’s Blackout
A Senate panel in Islamabad recently expressed concerns over the alleged censorship of PTI founder Imran Khan’s speeches in parliament. Lawmakers questioned PEMRA’s selective actions against TV channels and journalists accused of spreading disinformation. The issue of media coverage, especially the silencing of Imran Khan’s speeches, was highlighted as a key point of discussion in ongoing negotiations between the government and PTI.
Calls for Media Reforms
Members of the Standing Committee of the Senate on Information and Broadcasting emphasized the need for comprehensive media reforms. During the session, lawmakers directed questions at Secretary Information and Broadcasting, Ambreen Jan, seeking clarity on the situation. Despite concerns raised by lawmakers, PEMRA clarified that no channel has been banned from mentioning Imran Khan’s name.
Demand for Accountability
Senator Ali Zafar demanded action against those responsible for censoring opposition speeches. While Ambreen Jan acknowledged her authority to take disciplinary action as MD, she clarified that she could not terminate employees. Senator Aon Abbas insisted on providing evidence to identify those involved and ensure they face consequences.
Technical Issues or Selective Censorship?
Committee chairman Syed Ali Zafar showed videos from his phone, revealing instances of his own speeches being censored in the Senate. Senator Aon Abbas questioned why only opposition speeches were being censored, prompting the secretary of information to attribute it to technical reasons. However, Abbas further probed why these technical issues appeared to exclusively affect opposition speeches rather than those of government members.
Concerns Over Disinformation
Director-General Operations Muhammad Tahir briefed the committee on PEMRA’s efforts to combat misinformation and disinformation. He highlighted amendments to the legislative framework, defining disinformation as broadcasting content against someone with malicious intent or personal gain without seeking the other party’s perspective. Despite receiving 124 complaints regarding misinformation and disinformation in 2023, with 45 pending, PEMRA took actions like temporarily suspending channel networks for false reporting.
Addressing Journalists’ Concerns
Tahir also addressed journalists’ grievances, noting that earlier legislation did not adequately address issues related to employees’ salaries and dues. However, recent amendments empower PEMRA to take legal action against TV channels failing to pay their employees’ salaries or arrears. As the discussions continue, the need for transparency, accountability, and fair media practices remains at the forefront of the Senate panel’s agenda.
