Pakistan has suspended a television channel for 15 days and imposed a fine of `10 million for airing a derogatory programme against the country’s judiciary, the second time this year when a major news network has been silenced by the Government.
The Pakistan Electronic Media Regularity Authority (PEMRA) suspended ARY News’ licence on Monday, accusing it of maligning the country’s judiciary in a talk show, ‘Khara Sach’, which was critical of the court system and senior judges.
A special meeting of PEMRA was called on Monday to review the talk show anchored by Mubasher lucman on the orders of the lahore High Court (lHC).
PEMRA officials found the show in contravention with the PEMRA act and its code of conduct. The regulatory authority had banned lucman and the talk show on Saturday.
Earlier on Friday, the lHC had issued bailable arrest warrants against ARY News chief executive officer Salman Iqbal, programme’s producer lucman and Asim Malik, owner of a firm whose interview was aired, for not appearing before the court despite having been summoned. The court placed restrictions on airing of the show and participation of the anchor in any other TV programme.