Pakistan Top Stories Trending Now

ISPR’s permission mandatory for inviting retired army officers to TV talk shows

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) has made it mandatory for TV channels to seek clearance from ISPR before inviting any retired army officer to any TV talk show.

The media regulator has directed all TV channels to seek prior clearance from Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) before inviting retired military officers on news and current affairs programmes “to solicit their views on matters of national security”.

A notification issued by PEMRA stated that “concerned quarters” have observed that retired military officers, when invited on TV programmes, “are usually not fully conversant with the latest defence and security developments due to their service background and post-retirement time”.

Pemra further noted that discussions featuring such retired personnel “mostly switch from security matters to politics, which inadvertently embroils military officers into a political debate” — a situation it described as “undesirable”.

Subsequently, the regulator directed TV networks to seek ISPR’s clearance when inviting former military officers as “defence analysts”, and if the discussion involves non-security matters, the guest be introduced simply as an “analyst”.

ISPR’s permission must be sought in either case, said Pemra, warning that it requires “strict compliance” on this.

 

Dear TNT Reader,

At The News Tribe, our mission is to bring you free, independent, and unbiased news and content that keeps you informed and empowered. We are committed to upholding the highest standards of journalism, as we understand that we are a platform for truth.

Apart from independent global news coverage, we also commit our unique focus on the Muslim world. In an age marked by the troubling rise of Islamophobia and widespread misrepresentation of Muslims in Western media, we strive to provide accurate and fair coverage.

But to continue doing so, we need your support. Even a small donation of 1$ can make a big difference. Your contribution will help us maintain the quality of our news and counteract the negative narratives that are so prevalent.

Please consider donating today to ensure we can keep delivering the news that matters. Together, we can make a positive impact on the world, and work towards a more inclusive, informed global society.

Monthly Subscription Annual Subscription

Visa Card MasterCard American Express Card

We want to hear your Travel Stories.

Do you have a memorable, unbelievable, or favorite travel experience? Share your story with us.