Cable operators do not have authority to shut channels: SHC

KARACHI: The Sindh High Court (SHC) on Wednesday observed that cable operators did not have the authority to shut channels on their own directives.

The SHC has hearing eight petitions related to the closure of Geo News by cable operators. The case was heard by a two member SHC bench comprising Justice Muneeb Akhtar and Justice Shafiq Siddiqui. Justice Muneeb Akhtar remarked that under Article 19 freedom of press could not be ignored. He added that it was the right of every Pakistani to have access to information and this was an issue of human rights not just the closure of a channel.

Justice Muneeb Akhtar asked the lawyer for cable operators how could PEMRA ordinance or any laws violate the fundamental rights of citizens.

The SHC observed that freedom of expression and press would not be violated under the constitution. Justice Muneeb Akhtar asked what had been done by PEMRA for the restoration of Geo News which was the most popular channel in the country.

The lawyer for PEMRA informed the court that the regulatory authority had taken action and issued show cause notices to cable operators.

Meanwhile the lawyer for Geo, Jam Asif informed the court that the SHC and Supreme Court had issued verdicts against the closure of Geo News.

The court has issued notices to Attorney General Pakistan and other parties for August 6 and directed PEMRA to submit its written comments. The order further states that PEMRA should ensure that cable operators do not restrict freedom of expression.