The Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA): PBA has called upon the Chairman of the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) for the immediate reinstatement of suspended TV rating services, according to news sources.
The Pakistan Broadcast Association expressed concern over the instant cessation of television rating service. The whole exercise has resulted in a sharp decline in media investment, especially harmful to broadcasters and advertisers. The suspension has caused massive cancellations of ad campaigns, hence contributing to significant revenue loss in the industry.
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PBA further underlined the importance of TV ratings for broadcasters and advertisers concerning performance and strategy development-orientated decisions. It has asked PEMRA to revisit its decision and restore the rating services at the earliest to address the grievances of the media and advertising sectors.
Last May 2024, Islamabad High Court served notice to PEMRA regarding the ban on court coverage. Chief Justice Aamer Farooq was hearing the petition filed by the Journalists’ Association that challenged the notification of authority and restrained PEMRA from initiating any disciplinary action against TV channels. The IHC issued notices to PEMRA and the Secretary of Information, with the petitioners, including Barrister Omar Ayaz Gullani, appearing in court.
This notification followed the filing of four petitions challenging the PEMRA ruling, which prohibits the channels from broadcasting news related to activities in the court. The petitions demanded the immediate suspension, quashment, and pronouncement of illegality in the PEMRA notification.