Law on opening of radio, TV channels likely: Anwar
ISLAMABAD- Law to regulate opening of Radio and Television channels in the private sector is expected to be promulgated in about a week’s time.
The Secretary Information, Syed Anwar Mahmood while participating in “Radio Forum” programme of News and Current Affairs Channel of Radio Pakistan, stated this.
He said two more laws dealing with the setting up of Pakistan Press Council and registration of newspapers have been cleared by the Law Ministry and will be presented before the Federal Cabinet in the next meeting along with the law about opening of Radio and TV channels in the private sector.
To a question he said there would be criteria governing issuance of license for establishment of Radio and TV channels in the private sector but there would be no restriction on transmission or programme.
He appreciated the role played by electronic and print media in promoting national solidarity and careful handling of ticklish issues.
The Secretary Information said there is complete press freedom in the country but the press should avail of this freedom with responsibility.
Syed Anwar Mahmood said ban on Indian TV channels through cable operators in Pakistan was necessitated by intensified anti-Pakistan propaganda by Indian media.
He pointed out that despite venomous propaganda following September 11, Pakistan did not ban Indian telecasts but Indian Government has banned PTV’s telecasts besides jamming broadcast of Radio Pakistan.
He said Indian channels for which payment was being made through Hundi system via Dubai were running advertisements sponsored by some Pakistani parties.
Pakistan cannot allow its precious foreign exchange to be spent for propaganda against the country, he added. He, however, said the ban is temporary and would be lifted as soon as the situation improves.
Replying to a question, Syed Anwar Mahmood pointed out that Indian media was creating war hysteria but we are not behaving in that manner.
He said Pakistan wants peace but is prepared to defend if war is imposed. To another question he said there is no change in Pakistan’s Kashmir policy.
He said in meeting of the Security Council and Cabinet, the President also made it clear that Pakistan would continue to provide support the right of self-determination of Kashmiri people.
Source: Business Recorder
Date:1/4/2002
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