| |
A daily review of media coverage of media and communications issues. |
| |
Intimidation
Journalists stopped from entering SC building |
| |
Journalists were barred from entering the Supreme Court (SC) building to perform their professional duties on Thursday when the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) was hearing the presidential reference against CJP Chaudhry. When the journalists tried to enter the SC building they were not allowed. Lawyers supported the journalists and raised slogans for freedom of press. When journalists tried to get in, some people impersonating lawyers clashed with them. Three reporters received injuries. Later, journalists met Registrar Muhammad Ali and asked whether he had banned their entry to the SC, he replied in the negative, but at the same time admitted that he wanted to restrict the entry of reporters.
(News-9) (Nawa-e-Waqt-8)
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2007\05\04\story_4-5-2007_pg7_4 |
| |
|
| |
President’s address to public rally in Nau Kot, coverage to unofficial media disallowed |
| |
President of Pakistan Gen Pervaiz Mushrraf will address a public rally in Nau Kot, District Mirpur Khas (Sindh) on 5th May 07. Unofficial print and electronic media not allowed to cover inaugural functions of different projects. In this regard passes have not been issued to journalists. Earlier Ministry of Information Sindh asked journalists of Mirpur Khas to submit copies of National ID cards, Media cards and photographs. But PID did not contact local journalists. PID has told sources that in a high level meeting, it was decided that unofficial electronic and print media will not be allowed to cover events during President’s visit. Correspondents of Private channels and print media have been asked to attend the rally as common participants to listen the speech of the president.
(Jang-8)
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Pro-govt lawyers clash with journalists |
| |
A group of pro-government lawyers clashed with journalists on Thursday after a lawyer, Shahid Hussain Bhatti, tried to stop journalists from asking questions. Advocates Nadeem Siddiqui and Khurram Khan were addressing a press conference when Bhatti exchanged hot words with journalists, as he was not happy with the questions they were asking. However, Siddiqui and Khan apologised to the journalists when they announced boycotting of the conference. Representatives from the Punjab Union of Journalists and the Lahore Press Conference reached the venue and got the issue resolved. Addressing the press conference, Siddiqui claimed that the bar did not take the house into confidence before inviting the chief justice.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2007\05\04\story_4-5-2007_pg13_3 |
| |
|
| |
World Press Freedom Day
World Press Freedom Day | Journalists ask govt to avoid pressurising media |
| |
Observing World Press Freedom Day' journalists of Rawalpindi and Islamabad protested against the government outside the National Assembly, Thursday and demanded of the government to not to pressurize the media in performing its duty. The journalists marched from parliament lodges to main gate of the National Assembly while chanting slogans against the government media policy. Addressing the journalist, Huma Ali, PFUJ president, said the government must ensure the freedom of press and let the journalists perform their duty. Meanwhile, spirited groups of youthful journalists remained protested against the government policies regarding press freedom right in front of the main gate of the National Assembly Thursday, despite the sizzling day; they kept condemning the law enforcement agencies brutality, endured on the World Press Freedom Day, with full-throated slogans.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.thepost.com.pk/IsbNewsT.aspx?dtlid=95415&catid=17 |
| |
|
| |
The blues outshine boasts in NA on press freedom day |
| |
The blues outshone boasts as the National Assembly devoted most of its proceedings on Thursday to assuring solidarity with the media to mark the international press freedom day. Opposition members lambasted the government for curtailing press freedom through such means as denying state advertising to non-conformist newspapers, threats given to journalists and the latest tactic of blocking broadcasts of private television channels as seen during the prevailing judicial crisis. But the government denied the charges, claimed being the most liberal to the press in Pakistan’s history and took credit for the expansion of the electronic media in recent years, with Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Tariq Azeem Khan blaming the problems of television channels on their failure to get permanent uplinking facilities. Sherry Rehman claimed that 24 journalists were murdered during Mushraf regime while 68 journalists were abducted. 37 attacks on media property were reported. Pemra was termed as sword over media. She also asked to implement wage award.
(Nawa-e-Waqt-2)
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.dawn.com/2007/05/04/top5.htm |
| |
|
| |
NA expresses solidarity with journalists |
| |
The National Assembly on Thursday held a debate suspending the rules to express solidarity with journalists on World Press Freedom Day. Members from both sides of the divide vowed their support for media freedom and for the welfare of journalists. Opposition members criticised the government for its “manoeuvres to curb press freedom” through censorship, while the government side claimed that the present regime had allowed unprecedented freedom to Pakistan’s media. Tariq Azeem, minister of state for information, said the government and opposition both support media freedom. He said the present government issued licences to dozens of TV channels and gave them full freedom within a code of ethics. Responding to opposition criticism about victimisation of some TV channels, he said these channels do not have permanent uplink facilities and have to renew their licences.
(Khabrain-03)
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2007\05\04\story_4-5-2007_pg7_19 |
| |
|
| |
Journalists hold rallies for press freedom |
| |
Journalists across the country observed the International Press Freedom Day on Thursday. They held demonstrations and criticised the steps taken by the government to suppress the media. In Islamabad, a large demonstration was organised by the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists and the Rawalpindi-Islamabad Union of Journalists. They eulogised the services of the journalists who had sacrificed their lives in line of duty and those who had faced tremendous hardships to uphold the banner of freedom of the press.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.dawn.com/2007/05/04/nat4.htm |
| |
|
| |
Journalists rally on Press Freedom Day |
| |
The journalist’s community in the Federal Capital on Thursday staged a protest rally in connection with World Press Freedom Day and demanded the implementation of Wage Board Award. A large number of journalists attended the rally. They were holding placards and banners inscribed with different slogans related to the freedom of press. The rally was organised by Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) to mark International Press Freedom Day on May 3. They demanded implementation of the Wage Board Award. General Secretary Rawalpindi Islamabad Union of Journalists (RIUJ) Afzal Butt and President of the RIUJ Mustaq Minhas led the rally and Sherry Rehman, Information Secretary of Pakistan People’s Party Parliamentarian (PPP-P) and other office-bearers of the press club were also present on this occasion. The rally was started from Bleu Area and culminated peacefully at front of the Parliament House. The opposition parties and lawyers community expressed solidarity with the journalists. They also raised slogans in the favour of journalists.
(News-19) (Jang-2) (Nawa-e-Waqt-3)
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.nation.com.pk/daily/may-2007/4/nationalnews4.php |
| |
|
| |
Media yet to get freedom: PPP |
| |
The Pakistan Peoples Party has expressed solidarity with the journalist community of the country as the world media marks the World Press Freedom Day Thursday. Pakistan does not have much to celebrate at the annual occasion as the country recently featured as one of the top 10 countries who suffered the worst for the freedom of the press. This was reported by an international media watchdog, the Committee to Protect Journalists. The report says eight journalists have been killed in the last five years, while at least 15 have been abducted in that time. In the South Asia, Pakistan ranks as the top for its unsafe media environment.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.thepost.com.pk/IsbNewsT.aspx?dtlid=95423&catid=17 |
| |
|
| |
PPP, media natural allies |
| |
Expressing solidarity with the journalists community, the PPP has declared that the party considers the media as natural partners in its fight for the cause of democracy in the country. It also said that it enjoyed the distinction of being the only party that has an ideal working relationship with journalists. The party claimed this through a statement issued on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day. Extending the party”s support to the journalists community, Central Information Secretary PPP Sherry Rehman stated that her party stands for the freedom of the media and would back any move that facilitates improvement in the working condition of the media.
(Nawa-e-Waqt-3)
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.thenews.com.pk/daily_detail.asp?id=54274 |
| |
|
| |
Report unveils sad state of media in Pakistan |
| |
Shabbir Ahmed Mir covers the state of media in Pakistan. The past one year saw a considerable increase in incidents of attacks on the media in general including government attempts to gag the media, as five journalists were killed, 17 arrested or detained, 61 injured in physical assaults, and 27 intimidated, an independent report issued here on Wednesday revealed. In his special message issued here on the eve of World Press Freedom Day, the UN secretary-general said on Tuesday: "Attacks on freedom of press are attacks against international law, against humanity, against freedom itself - against everything the United Nations stands for. A free, secure and independent press is among the very foundations of democracy and peace. Governments, international organizations the media and civil society all have a role to play in upholding those foundations. On World Press Freedom Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to this mission."
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.thenews.com.pk/print1.asp?id=54093 |
| |
|
| |
Nasir Zaidi recounts media struggle in Pakistan |
| |
“Present are the darkest times for the independence of media in the history of Pakistan.” Noted Nasir Zaidi a renowed journalist and media rights activists who faced military trials and public flogging of lashes in Zia’s martial law regime says a press release. In a special ‘Baithak’ organized by Rural Development Policy Institute in connection to World Press Freedom Day.
(News-19)
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Journalists’ interactive dialogue |
| |
An interactive and informative dialogue between journalists of different cities and districts of the country was held in Lahore and was arranged by Pakistan Press Foundation. The three-day workshop was mainly based on investigative reporting on the forth coming election schedule next year. It provided this correspondent an opportunity to participate and discuss issues pertaining to the elections, with special reference to rigging which political pundits believe is an integral part of Pakistani culture. Journalists were divided on different notions and confined only to respective provinces, as discussion between media people mainly revolves around their respective areas. They avoided the larger picture and were reluctant to pay attention to other cities or provinces.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.thenews.com.pk/daily_detail.asp?id=54285 |
| |
|
| |
World Press Day | Journalists demand freedom of expression |
| |
Declaring 2006 the worst-ever year for the media around the world, journalists have demanded the Government of Pakistan provide real freedom of expression to the press and ensure that the 7th Wage Board Award was implemented immediately. These demands were presented by the office-bearers of Punjab Union of Journalists (PUJ), Pakistan Federal Union Journalists (PFUJ), Lahore Press Club and other journalists while addressing a rally held in connection with World Press Freedom Day at Faisal Chowk Thursday.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.thepost.com.pk/CityNewsT.aspx?dtlid=95446&catid=3 |
| |
|
| |
Press Freedom Day celebrated |
| |
Press Freedom Day was observed on Thursday to stress the importance of granting complete freedom to the press around the globe because of its role in building a healthy society. Special ceremonies were held in AJK, including the Mirpur division, with the support of various journalists, organisations and press clubs. In Mirpur, a meeting of senior journalists was held here under the chairmanship of Azad Jammu Kashmir Union of Journalists Central Chief Organiser Altaf Hamid Rao.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2007\05\04\story_4-5-2007_pg7_43 |
| |
|
| |
Press freedom, independent judiciary must for democracy |
| |
Democracy and changes in style of governance are prerequisite for press freedom in the country, said jurists, journalists and academics in a seminar on ‘State of Press Freedom in Pakistan’ at Karachi Press Club on Thursday. They termed media freedom and independent judiciary essential for democratic functioning of the government. They expressed concerns over increasing intolerance and violence, which had made journalists vulnerable with murders of six working media-men while 50 others were injured during last year in the country. The speakers questioned quality and credibility of news and feared that news were being planted by interested parties. They raised doubts about effectiveness of perceived media freedom in the country recently, which was only restricted to expressing opinion while depiction of facts is being resisted by the rulers. They called commercial pressure as major challenge to the press freedom.
(Express-8)
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.nation.com.pk/daily/may-2007/4/nationalnews10.php |
| |
|
| |
Freedom of media linked to democracy |
| |
Speakers at a seminar here on Thursday in connection with World Press Freedom Day linked the freedom of media to democracy in Pakistan and demanded an end to harassment and abuses with journalists.
The seminar titled “Why freedom of media is necessary” was organised by the Hyderabad press club at its auditorium. President Hyderabad Press Club Mohammed Shahid Sheikh presided over the seminar while opposition leader in the Sindh Assembly Nisar Khuhro, Sindh Adviser Nuzhat Pathan, former Sindh Assembly speaker Hussein Haroon, MMA Sindh President Asadullah Bhutto and MPA Abdul Rehman Rajput were among the speakers. The seminar unanimously approved resolutions demanding security for journalists and criticising the role of the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) in becoming a voice of the government to gag media, especially television channels.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.thenews.com.pk/daily_detail.asp?id=54240 |
| |
|
| |
Journalists slam attacks on media |
| |
The Pakistan Union of Journalists (PUJ), the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalist (PFUJ) and the Lahore Press Club (LPC) held a protest outside the Punjab Assembly on Press Freedom Day on Thursday. PUJ president Arif Hameed Bhatti said that journalism was the fourth pillar of democracy but in Pakistan journalists were facing various pressures. He condemned the killing of journalist Hayatullah Khan. He said that recently Sohail Qalander was kidnapped by some unidentified people for reporting against them.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2007\05\04\story_4-5-2007_pg13_6 |
| |
|
| |
World Press Freedom Day observed at US Embassy |
| |
The US Embassy observed the World Press Freedom Day here on Thursday, expressing the US commitment to a free media in Pakistan. Speaking at an informal get-together arranged in the honor of senior local and foreign journalists at the embassy to mark the day, Dr Elizabeth O Colton, the acting Public Affairs Officer and Press Attaché of the US Embassy, said, “Freedom of press is basic to American democracy, and the US works to protect and promote press freedom at home and around the world.” She said Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice had stated that ‘there was no more important pillar of democracy than a free and active press.’ As part of President George W Bush’s Freedom Agenda, the US views freedom of press as a key component of democracy, she added.
(Nawa-e-Waqt-8)
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2007\05\04\story_4-5-2007_pg11_6 |
| |
|
| |
Press freedom rally |
| |
The Punjab Union of Journalists staged a demonstration in connection with the Press Freedom Day outside the Lahore Press Club here on Thursday. The journalists displayed banners and placards inscribed with slogans condemning, ‘government’s attempts to curb the freedom of the media, and delay in the implementation of the 7th Wage Board Award.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.dawn.com/2007/05/04/nat40.htm |
| |
|
| |
Journalists’ struggle praised |
| |
Speakers at a seminar here on Thursday lauded the struggle being waged by working journalists for gathering and disseminating information and opposed all kinds of curbs placed on the press by successive regimes in the country. The seminar on the International Press Freedom Day was held by the Khyber Union of Journalists at the Peshawar Press Club.NWFP People’s Party Parliamentarians senior vice-president Syed Qamar Abbas, Peshawar High Court Bar Association president Latif Afridi, provincial Information Minister Asif Iqbal Daudzai, Aurat Foundation resident director Rukhshanda Naz, Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam information secretary Abdul Jalil Jan, KhUJ president Jan Afzal, Tribal Union of Journalists chief Nasir Mohmand and PPC president M. Riaz spoke on the importance of press freedom and economic rights of journalists and other newspaper workers.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.dawn.com/2007/05/04/local30.htm |
| |
|
| |
Press Freedom Day observed |
| |
Hundreds of journalists, lawyers, political leaders and workers during a rally on Thursday called upon the government to ensure the freedom of press and free access to information. The rally was organised by the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) and the Rawalpindi-Islamabad Union of Journalists (RIUJ) to mark Press Freedom Day. The rally’s participants marched from D-Chowk to the Parliament House. They were carrying placards inscribed with slogans such as ‘free press,’ ‘stop violation against journalists,’ ‘freedom of press is the right of public’. They condemned the government’s policies that tormented journalists and influenced media.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2007\05\04\story_4-5-2007_pg11_5 |
| |
|
| |
‘Federal govt’s claim of free press false’ |
| |
NWFP Information Minister Asif Iqbal Daudzai has said the federal government’s claim that the press in the country is free is false, and that the attack on Geo News offices and a notice to Aaj TV provide ample proof to refute it. Speaking on Thursday at a seminar organised by the Khyber Union of Journalists (KhUJ) to observe International Press Freedom Day, Daudzai said the MMA government gave due importance and respect to the press and considered it the fourth pillar of the state.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2007\05\04\story_4-5-2007_pg7_51 |
| |
|
| |
Sarhad Journalists Welfare Trust to be set up at a cost of Rs 6 million |
| |
Speakers at a seminar organized by the Khyber Union of Journalists at Peshawar Press Club to mark International Press Freedom Day said that the media conveys the voice of people to decision makers. Provincial Information Minister Aseef Iqbal Daudzai said the press was the fourth pillar of the state and no one could deny its importance. Minister told that government had allotted a media colony for Peshawar based journalists. He added that Sarhad Journalist Welfare Trust would be established at a cost of Rs 6 million.
(Daily Times-B2)
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Independent media empowers people: Hunt |
| |
An independent and active press is an important pillar of democracy as it empowers people, exposes corruption, encourages transparency and promotes people's participation in the political process, said US Consulate's Principal Officer Bryan Hunt while addressing a seminar at the Punjab University's Institute of Communication Studies (ICS) on the World Press Freedom Day. ICS Director Dr Mugheesuddin Sheikh also spoke on challenges faced by the press Wednesday.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.thepost.com.pk/CityNewsT.aspx?dtlid=95447&catid=3 |
| |
|
| |
Pakistan lucky to have free media, says Hunt |
| |
An independent and active press is an important pillar of democracy because it empowers people, exposes corruption, encourages transparency and promotes participation in the political process, US Consulate Principal Officer (PO) Bryan Hunt said on Thursday. He was addressing faculty and students at the Punjab University’s Institute of Communication Studies (ICS) at a ceremony held to commemorate World Press Freedom Day. Hunt said Pakistan was fortunate to have a free and growing independent media, adding that he had been impressed with the wide variety of viewpoints available in print and electronic media. “For me, as someone who spent most of his career in African countries without a vibrant independent press, the difference in Pakistan is truly dramatic,” he said. He said an open press should be welcomed and encouraged.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2007\05\04\story_4-5-2007_pg7_7 |
| |
|
| |
Media enjoys maximum freedom, Azeem tells NA |
| |
Expressing solidarity with the newsmen on world media freedom day, State Minister for Information and Broadcast Tariq Azeem told national assembly that during the past seven years, the present government has given maxium freedom to press which was never ensured in past. He said PEMRA has its own laws. He told that when temporary period for up linking expires PEMRA suspends transmission which is restored on renewal.
(News-9) (Jang-8)
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Durrani vows maximum protection to journalists on World Press Freedom Day |
| |
Federal Minister for Information and broadcasting Mohammad Ali Durrani on Thursday vowed, on the occasion of the World Press Freedom (WPF) Day, to provide full protection to journalist community in the country. Speaking on a private TV channel, Durrani said that free media in the country is the credit of the present government and it would further grow as a more dynamic and vibrant national institution in the future. Commenting on the report of the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), the Minister said the government has a clean record and there was not a single case in which blame could be laid at its door for excess against any journalist.
(Jang-8) (Khabrain-01) (Express-1)
|
| |
|
| |
http://news.aaj.tv/news.php?pg=3&show=detail&nid=65013 |
| |
|
| |
Press freedom to further grow |
| |
Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Senator Muhammad Ali Durrani Thursday paid rich tributes to the sacrifices and services of journalist community. Talking to the media here in connection with the World Press Freedom Day, Durrani said that the press freedom is an ongoing process which would further grow by each coming day. “President Pervez Musharraf is the true architect of free press in Pakistan. He not only strengthened the democratic norms but also reinforced national institutions.
The government helped grow the media institutions on latest trends but also facilitated the media in training, enabling environment and information access,” he said and added that legislation was also introduced to ensure free media while national and international investment in the media sector are a pleasant change.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.nation.com.pk/daily/may-2007/4/nationalnews1.php |
| |
|
| |
Altaf Hussain’s message on Freedom of Press day |
| |
MQM leader Alatf Hussain has said that a lot of work is required to ensure freedom of press. For democracy, freedom of press is vital. In Pakistan, media had worst experiences in the past. He praised the media policy of the present regime. He urged to do more to ensure freedom of press. He asked president and Prime Minister to announce the implementation of 7th wage award. He showed his and his party's solidarity with media community on the eve of international Press freedom day.
(Jang-8)
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Capital Talk on Freedom of Press |
| |
Geo TV Talk Show Capital Talk conducted a debate on freedom of press in Pakistan to mark international day of press freedom. Speakers commented that journey of freedom of press was extremely difficult. It was the duty of government to ensure freedom of press and protection of media community. In non political era of Gen Mushrraf, the situation got better for freedom of press.
(Jang-8)
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Letter to editor ‘Press freedom under attack’ |
| |
Zulfiqar Halepoto comments “The annual report by Reporters without Borders for Press Freedom has highlighted the vulnerability of the print and electronic media vis-à-vis the Musharraf regime’s actions against them. This report also highlighted the unsafe environment for the journalists to perform their professional duties. The cases of kidnapping of Dilawar Khan, reporter of the BBC and Dawn, Mukesh Kumar and Sanjay Kumar of GEO TV and Maharuddin Marri of daily Kawish (Badin)and Munir Mengal of Baloch Voice TV by the law-enforcement agencies as well as the targeted killing of Munir Sangi of Kawish are some of the many incidents of brutality against journalists in the year 2006.”
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.dawn.com/2007/05/04/letted.htm#1 |
| |
|
| |
Dawn Editorial ‘New look at press freedom’ |
| |
It is advisable for journalists to look at the state of their own media and the extent of freedom it enjoys. Thanks to the struggle of their media people, Pakistanis have come a long way in winning a larger measure of freedom than in the days when journalists were whipped and newspapers shut down. But today there are other means of curbing the press. Journalists are brutally murdered or made to ‘disappear’. Which is more acceptable? The press is livelier today, these checks notwithstanding. This just shows that comparisons are often odious.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.dawn.com/2007/05/04/ed.htm#2 |
| |
|
| |
Hamid Mir asks “Is Pakistani media really free?” |
| |
Jang columnist Hamid Mir asks “kia Pakistani media waqai azad ha?” (Is Pakistani media really free?) He comments, “Next few weeks will be time testing for media and government. Media has to show responsibility with determination and courage. Real power of media is the use of freedom with responsibility.”
(Jang-Column)
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Press under siege | Threats to journalists’ lives, Sadaf Arshad |
| |
Another Pakistani freelance photojournalist Mehboob Khan was killed in a suicide bomb blast on April 28. He died in the bomb explosion that took place at a public meeting addressed by Interior Minister Aftab Ahmad Khan Sherpao in Charsadda. In this attack, four other journalists— ATV cameraman Arif Yousafzai, reporter Siddiqullah of the Urdu newspaper Subah, Ayaz Muhammad of the Associated Press of Pakistan and Press Information Department photographer Arshad Ali Siddiqullah were injured. Such suicide attacks are the biggest security threat for journalists, who at the cost of their lives go into the field. During the four months of this year, four journalists, including an Afghan journalist Ajmal Nakshbandi, were killed. This year the Press Freedom Day would be observed while keeping those four sacrifices in mind.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.thepost.com.pk/OpinionNews.aspx?dtlid=95384&catid=11 |
| |
|
| |
Government Regulations
400 cable permits cancelled: PEMRA grants 3 TV licences |
| |
The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) on Thursday granted three more satellite TV licences while cancelling 400 cable TV licences. The licences included the first private satellite TV licence for Balochistan. With these additions, the number of licensed Pakistani private TV channels is now 22. PEMRA granted these licences in a meeting held here and discussed various matters related to private broadcast media. It approved the cancellation of 400 cable TV licences across the country on grounds of various violations and illegalities. The PEMRA chairman apprised the meeting about the International Media Conference and Exhibition scheduled for May 15 and 16 in Karachi.
(Jang-8) (Express-8)
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2007\05\04\story_4-5-2007_pg1_6 |
| |
|
| |
First ever satellite TV license granted to Balochistan |
| |
The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) on Thursday granted three more satellite TV licenses while canceling 400 cable TV licenses. The licenses included the first private satellite TV license for Balochistan besides “Duniya TV” and “Prime TV”. With this addition the number of Pakistani licensed private TV channels would grow to 22.
(News-14)
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
PEMRA to cancel 400 licences |
| |
Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority has decided to cancel licenses of 400 cable operators working in the country and accorded approval to start transmission of three new TV Channel.
PEMRA has also granted landing rights to 10 foreign channels. PEMRA took the decision into this effect during its board meeting held on Thursday. PEMRA Chairman Iftikhar Rashid chaired the meeting.
"We have decided to cancel licenses of 400 cable operators which were working illegally in the country," said PEMRA Chairman while talking to media men following meeting. Approval to start three new TV Channels two in Lahore and one in Balochistan has been given, he said.
He said PEMRA would continue to take such decision on the basis of merit.
Responding to a question about serving of show cause notice to a Private TV Channel, the PEMRA Chairman said Aaj TV was not allowed to uplink from Peshawar. The channel was creating disturbance.
(Khabrain-03)
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.nation.com.pk/daily/may-2007/4/index10.php |
| |
|
| |
PEMRA objects to TV mobile phone service |
| |
A cellphone company continues to provide television connections on mobile phones despite a notice served by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority not to do so. Telenor launched TV mobile service late last month without obtaining a licence from PEMRA. “PEMRA has issued a notice to Telenor, seeking explanation about its mobile phone TV service without its permission,” a spokesman for the authority told this correspondent here on Thursday. He said the authority had not allowed the company to launch such a service without fulfilling legal requirements. The official said that the company had said that it would would meet all legal formalities but he did not specify any timeframe for the issuance of the licence. Asked if Pemra would allow the company sell further TV connections, the spokesman said that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority should be asked this question. The PTA spokesman was not available for comments.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.dawn.com/2007/05/04/nat3.htm |
| |
|
| |
Media Unions
PTV union assures management of cooperation |
| |
Pakistan Television Employees Union has assured copertaion to the PTV management in bringing reforms in the organization. In a joint statement, PTV employees union demeneded of the PTV Chairman and MD to get the organization rid of favoritism and remove all illegally appointed people who are burden on a organization.
(News-2)
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Movies
German filmmaker to critique short films |
| |
Two short films produced by Manizhe Ali, Baig City and Your Beautiful World, and Mind the Gap by Najaf Bilgrami will be showcased at the Goethe-Institut on Friday, May 4 as part of their sessions in German Fine Arts. German Fine Arts 12 - a programme series is a collaboration of the Goethe-Institut Pakistan and the International Association of Art Critics in Pakistan (AICA) that features Media Art in its hybrid forms. What today is collectively called Media Art, started in the 1960s as Fluxus and Happenings. The following two decades brought forth great video utopias. Since the 1990s multimedia and net art is the international artists’ response to a galloping technical development.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.thenews.com.pk/daily_detail.asp?id=54288 |
| |
|
| |
Theater
Ajoka Theater resents ban on drama |
| |
Condemning the ban on Ajoka Theater’s drama “Burqavaganza” imposed recently by the government under the influence of religious activists, Pattan Lok Nattak has asked the government to lift the ban. Government should avoid falling prey to baseless propaganda of intolerants.
(Nation-13)
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
Books
PAL books on literary legends |
| |
The Pakistan Academy of Letters (PAL) has published nearly 38 books on the achievements of distinguished literary legends so far. In 1990, the PAL made a plan to start a series of writings on lives and achievements of those poets and writers who made unique contributions to literature. For this purpose seven books are in the process of composing and proof-reading while nine books have been sent to the press for printing.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.thepost.com.pk/IsbNewsT.aspx?dtlid=95422&catid=17 |
| |
|
| |
Library building being neglected |
| |
The 115-year-old Lansdowne Trust Library is short of funds as its administration runs all affairs from the money acquired from the Odeon Cinema, Rawalpindi Cantonment Board (RCB) and the National Bank. These three buildings are also part of the trust. The library falls under RCB’s jurisdictions. On the Mall road, the library stands witness to the grandeur of the past. Sardar Kirpal Singh Rai Bahadar and Sardar Sujan Singh Rai Bahadar founded the trust in 1891. The aim was to offer people entertainment and education, which is why it has a library and a cinema.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2007\05\04\story_4-5-2007_pg11_3 |
| |
|
| |
Sindhi-language word processor developed |
| |
The Institute of Information Technology (IIT), University of Sindh, has developed a Unicode email system under the Sindhi language word processor. In an announcement, IIT professor Dr Imdad Ismaili has said the Unicode system had undergone successful tests on different websites. He said the new Unicode system is also helping in composing the Sindhi language.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.thenews.com.pk/daily_detail.asp?id=54247 |
| |
|
| |
Diaries of Ayub Khan |
| |
The Oxford University Press will launch its latest publication, Diaries of Field Marshal Mohammad Ayub Khan, 1966-1972, edited and annotated by Craig Baxter. This volume contains the diaries maintained by Field Marshal Ayub Khan from September 1966 to October 1972. The diaries cover a very turbulent period in Pakistan’s history that included Ayub Khan’s yielding of the presidency to Yahya Khan, the period of Yahya Khan’s rule that saw the end of the unified state of Pakistan, and finally, the replacement of Yahya Khan by Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto. Speakers at the launch will include Prof Pareshan Khattak, M.P. Bhandara, S.M. Zafar, Humayun Gauhar, Gohar Ayub Khan, and Ameena Saiyid.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.thenews.com.pk/daily_detail.asp?id=54294 |
| |
|
| |
Copy Rights
Governor finally takes note of plagiarism |
| |
Governor Khalid Maqbool has directed the Punjab University authorities to apprise him of the much-publicised case of plagiarism committed by five faculty members of the Centre for High Energy Physics (CHEP), its investigation and outcome. The governor — the chancellor of the university — has reportedly sought a detailed presentation from the Punjab University on receiving a request from the Higher Education Commission for his intervention in the case.
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.dawn.com/2007/05/04/nat8.htm |
| |
|
| |
No to plagiarism |
| |
With Pakistan's educational standards low, there is already the problem of poorly qualified, even perfectly unqualified, people in key jobs. This problem is compounded by rampant plagiarism in educational institutions, even in some otherwise thought to be quite prestigious. But there is a difference between the two evils, in that plagiarism is a crime, no matter where it takes place. In Punjab University there is a faculty which has been guilty of involvement in plagiarism, as established by the university's own internal investigation. But the five individuals in question, who plagiarised from international research papers, continue to be on the university's payroll. In fact, one of them, who used to hold a senior administrative and teaching post, had his contract extended after the plagiarism charge surfaced. This is unacceptable and the university needs to adopt a zero-tolerance policy against plagiarism. |
| |
|
| |
http://www.thenews.com.pk/daily_detail.asp?id=54164 |
| |
|
| |
Telecommunication
Treasury, Opp join hands against mobile companies |
| |
The opposition and the treasury members including a minister Thursday joined hands to grill the government regarding performance of cellular companies in the country. Demanding for complete debate upon the issue, they said thousands of mushroom towers installed across the country causing a serious threat to the residents living to its surroundings. They also opined these companies earn billions of dollars from Pakistan but in reply only pay Rs 2.62 billion as licence fee and taxes, while installed towers has become a serious health hazard.
(Nawa-e-Waqt-8)
|
| |
|
| |
http://www.thepost.com.pk/IsbNewsT.aspx?dtlid=95411&catid=17 |
| |
|
| |
Announcement
Seminar on Hameed Nazami |
| |
Aaina and Pakistan cultural forum will organize a seminar today on renowned journalist Hameed Nazami for his meritorious services for nation, literature and journalism. Seminar topic will be “Asra Hazar ka taqaza and Journalism” “Demands of current era and journalism”. Raja Zafar ul Haq will chair the seminar.
(Nawa-e-Waqt-8)
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
|
| |
DISCLAIMER: The contents, including news and headlines, in this newsletter are reproduced from their respective publications ad verbatim as a public service to media observers. Internews does not author the contents and these, therefore, do not necessarily reflect organizational policy.
Updated at 11:00 PST (06:00 GMT) |
| |
|
