Marriyum Aurangzeb, declared on Monday that the PEMRA Amendment Bill 2023 would be withdrawn following protests from journalists. The announcement was made during a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Information.
Addressing the meeting, Marriyum Aurangzeb stated that the government intended to eliminate the ‘black laws’ of PEMRA (Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority). She acknowledged the concerns raised by the journalists’ community regarding certain sections of the bill and assured that their right to expression and constitutional rights would be respected without compromise.
Ms. Aurangzeb highlighted that the bill had been drafted in consultation with stakeholders while the PML-N was in opposition.
Marriyum Aurangzeb, had proposed amendments to the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Amendment) Bill, 2023, which were subsequently passed by the National Assembly.
One of the amendments, in clause 2, aimed to ensure “fair, transparent, and independent rating” for broadcasters’ TV channels. Additionally, a new sub-section was introduced after sub-section (3) in Section 4, advocating for the registration of rating companies to issue fair and transparent ratings to licensees.
Furthermore, Marriyum Aurangzeb suggested substituting clause 8 of the bill, proposing an amendment to Section 20, Ordinance XIII of 2002. The amendment included a clause (e), stating that the licensee would submit an annual compliance report in addition to the preamble, as required by the Authority.
The decision to withdraw the PEMRA Amendment Bill 2023 comes in response to the journalists’ protest and their concerns about certain provisions in the bill. The government’s willingness to listen to the stakeholders and prioritize freedom of expression and constitutional rights reflects its commitment to upholding democratic values.
As the bill is set to be withdrawn, the government will likely revisit the proposed amendments and engage in further discussions with the journalists’ community and other stakeholders to ensure a balanced and transparent regulatory framework for electronic media in Pakistan.
In conclusion, Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb’s decision to take back the PEMRA Amendment Bill 2023 signifies the government’s responsiveness to public feedback and the importance of protecting media freedom and democratic values. The future steps will involve continued consultations to address concerns and find a consensus on regulations that promote fair and independent media ratings while respecting the rights of broadcasters and journalists.