ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) has issued show cause notices to Aaj TV for showing programmes aired by foreign entities. The channel has been asked to file a reply within seven days, i.e, by June 12, 2017, 12:00 pm. Pemra has directed the channel to explain its position over broadcasting BBC programme, which is aired on weekdays (from Monday to Friday) at 11:00 pm and Voice of America’s programme, which is also aired on weekdays at 7:00 pm.
Airing foreign content is a clear violation of Section 20(i) of Pemra Ordinance 2002 (Amendment Act 2007). According to the section, no licensee of Pemra can sell, transfer or assign the rights without prior permission of the Authority. Pemra has called the representative of the channel on the above-mentioned date for personal hearing. In case non-compliance ex-parte proceedings would be initiated against the channel.