Pakistan’s Media authority initiates action against Ahmadiyya Channels; 4th Pillar Media rejoices

The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has issued instructions to all regional offices to ensure that none of Ahmadiyya Channels operate in Pakistan and warned strict action over non-compliance by any distribution service licensee.

The PEMRA has been receiving numerous complaints for a while against the distribution of illegal Channels especially Ahmadiyya Channels including MTA, MTA-1, MTA-1-Al-Awla, and Ahmedia-1 (Urdu), said a notification issued on May 28 by the PEMRA Director General (Operations-Distributions) Muhammad Farooq.

However, it maintained that despite an inquiry having been conducted, specifics of such distribution networks remain unavailable.

The authority has directed all regional offices to remain vigilant and to ensure that no such illegal Channel is carried by any distribution service licensee.

It further warned of “stern legal action” against any violator. PEMRA also warned of license cancellation and confiscation of complete equipment of anyone who is found violating its notification.

Meanwhile, in a statement, the President of 4th Pillar Media Farooq H. Mirza said that efforts by the press association of journalists have yielded fruits as upon its complaint, the PEMRA for the first time has initiated an action against illegal channels operated by Ahmadiyya community which were desecrating the Holy Prophet Muhammad.

The 4th Pillar President revealed that the Kidzone Plus Channel is also running programs with cartoon portraits of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and airing them in Islamabad, army and remote areas through Dish TV.