PEMRA Orders Immediate Halt on Misuse of State Uniforms in TV Comedy Shows

PAKISTAN ELECTRONIC MEDIA REGULATORY AUTHORITY ISLAMABAD

No. 3(01)/2024/OPS-BM/5776                                                                            Islamabad, August 1, 2024

All Satellite TV Channel Licensees,

Subject:          Use of Uniform of State Institutions in Satire/Comedy Shows

It has been observed with grave concern that satellite TV channels while airing/producing programmes based on satire are using uniform of state institutions/law enforcement agencies in disgraceful manner. Satellite TV channels are especially portraying characters in police uniform in their comedy shows/satire programmes in derogatory manner.

2.                     PEMRA and the Council of Complaints are in receipt of complaints as well as through digital media platforms with regard to the subject matter. Public is of the view that TV channels should not depict any character or use of such words that may affect the dignity of state Institutions especially police force as the same imprint bad image of the police force among viewers.

3.                     Whereas, all PEMRA licensees are obliged to comply with the provisions of PEMRA Ordinance 2002, PEMRA Rules, Electronic Media (Programmes and Advertisements) Code of Conduct, 2015, Regulations, terms & conditions of the license and directives issued by the Authority.

4.                     Foregoing in view, all Satellite TV channel licensees are hereby directed to immediately stop using uniform of state institutions/law enforcement agencies in their comedy shows/satire as airing of such content is compromising the dignity of the Uniform.

5.                     In case of any violation observed legal action under Section 27, 29A and 30 of PEM RA Ordinance shall be initiated.

6.                     This issues with approval of the Chairman, PEMRA.