Renowned writer Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar was invited by NEO NEWS as a panel member for a talk-show.

However, the discussion got heated and both Khalil-ur-Rehman and known journalist Marvi Sirmed got into a heated debate.

Qamar used the indecent language of Sermid on-air, however despite the fact that such language and content are television against regulatory authority PEMRA’s rules and regulations, they cannot fine him, the show host or other guests.

On the other hand, PEMRA can legally fine and suspend NEO News. Reportedly, under Section 27 the media regulatory body can suspend a programme and under Section 29, they can impose a fine up to a million rupees, and under Section 30 the TV channel’s license can be suspended.

Aamir Liaquat Shuts Down Khalil ur Rehman on National Television

News channels are given a span of 7-10 seconds lag for producers to avoid/beep offensive comments from airing.

SAMAA Digital spoke to an official at the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority to understand how this situation will be handled.

“The first step is to send the licencee a show-cause notice,” the official said. “Once this is done, we will call them in for a personal hearing then make recommendations.” 

“Many programmes have been suspended because of poor editorial judgment,” the official said. “All TV channels are supposed to have a time delay mechanism as this gives them a cushion to edit out/omit objectionable material.” – the PEMRA official said.

“Many programs have been suspended because of poor editorial judgement,” the official added. “All TV channels are supposed to have a time delay mechanism as this gives them a cushion to edit out/omit objectionable material.”

Earlier, PEMRA fined a private TV Rs.1 million for airing defamatory content against Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resources Development Sayed Zulfikar Abbas Bukhari.

Before that, in January, PEMRA banned talk show ‘Off The Record’ for 60 days after Off The RecordFederal Minister for Water Resources Faisal Vawda brought a boot to the show.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.

Khalil Ur Rehman Is Being ‘Called-Out’ For Abusing Marvi Sirmed On Air

Source: SAMAA TV