Pakistan’s electronic media watchdog, the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA), on April 21 ordered local cable TV operators across the country to stop airing Indian television channels, warning that stringent action would be taken if they were found violating its orders. In a statement, it mentioned that several operators in the past were found violating the rules set in place by it and the Supreme Court.
The PEMRA on April 21 ordered its regional offices to conduct enforcement drives on reports of violations by cable TV operators which were airing Indian TV channels. It warned that any operator found defying the orders would be dealt with strictly in accordance with the PEMRA law.
The Karachi regional office conducted surprise inspections in various areas and raided cable TV operators. Raids were also conducted in Sindh’s Hyderabad and Punjab’s Multan regions. Illegal equipment was seized, and show cause notices were issued to the violators.