PBA strongly condemns closure of news channels
The decision regarding suspension of transmission must be revered immediately, the PBA stated.
ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – Pakistan Broadcasters Association has strongly condemned the unilateral closure of news channels by the government. The transmission of channels was shut down as crackdown against protestors staging sit-in at Faizabad interchange sparked countrywide protests.
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“PBA is a signatory to the Code of Conduct that is approved by the Supreme Court and has always been willing to abide by it. The right to information is a fundamental right guaranteed by the constitution,” the PBA stated in a press release.
It further said the PBA members have been responsibly covering the event and protest for the viewers of t Pakistan including the dharna’s (sit-in) side effects as well as the court’s judgment regarding it. As per code of conduct on sensitive security operations, PBA members will avoid live coverage that can jeopardize the operation and safety of security personnel as well as avoid all sensitive content that can incite violence against law enforcement personnel. Across the board unilateral action however must be avoided at all cost by the government and Pakistan Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA).
“The outright closure of news channels regardless of their content and conduct will not be acceptable by PBA and this action must be revered immediately.”
PBA has also condemned violence by the protestors against journalists including reporters, cameramen and technical staff.
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PBA demanded that the government should take action against the culprits and provided security to the journalists and property of media houses performing their constitutional responsibilities.
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