Daily Times

The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has submitted a written response to the Lahore High Court, denying any directive or ban on broadcasting the name of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founding chairman Imran Khan on television.

The response came as Justice Farooq Haider heard a petition filed by PTI member Akmal Khan Bari, alleging a restriction on using the PTI founder’s name in television broadcasts.

PEMRA, however, clarified that it had issued no notification or order to this effect.

In its detailed report to the court, PEMRA stated that the petitioner failed to present evidence of any such restriction imposed by the regulatory authority.

PEMRA also argued that the petitioner’s case is pending within PEMRA’s own proceedings, and thus the application before the Lahore High Court is inadmissible.

The federal government’s counsel supported this view, stating that, per PEMRA’s ordinance, the case does not qualify for court hearing.

With the petitioner’s lawyer absent, an assisting attorney informed the court of the lawyer’s commitments at the Supreme Court.

Following these proceedings, the court postponed the case indefinitely.

Separately, the IHC on Monday disposed of the petition seeking better facilities and access to meetings for former prime minister (PTI) Imran Khan after jail authorities assured court.

Justice Arbab Mohammad Tahir issued the written order after hearing the petition filed by Noreen Niazi.

The written order read that authorities at Adiala Jail had provided Imran Khan with all necessary facilities as per judicial directions and prison rules.

The detailed report submitted to the court by the Superintendent of Adiala Jail assured that Khan, like other prisoners, had been granted the ability to meet with visitors, which had previously been restricted by the Punjab Home Department due to concerns over terrorist attacks.

Furthermore, the jail authorities mentioned that Khan had appointed a coordinator, in line with court orders, for any future meeting requests.

Deputy Superintendent of the Jail clarified that Khan, as well as other prisoners, were provided with all jail amenities according to the rules, and that the assurances were given in accordance with the judicial order.