PEMRA directs kids TV channels to air appropriate programmes

ISLAMABAD: PEMRA has directed all entertainment satellite TV channels, having Landing Rights Permission, to broadcast only such children entertainment programmes which educates them about personal health, social participation and boosts their confidence and morals in becoming good human beings and citizens.

The directive comes after Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) had received numerous complaints from parents, who were greatly concerned with the programming contents/cartoons being aired on kids entertainment channels, a press release issued here said.

"Parents and psychiatrists are of the view that content being shown on kids channels is not suitable for the children’s mental and physical growth. These cartoon characters use inappropriate language which has bad impact on children’s well being and upbringing," the press release said.

PEMRA observed these channels were airing programmes which were promoting violence and anti-social behavior among the kids.

Therefore, it has advised all Landing Rights Permission holders having issued permission for marketing and distributing Kids Entertainment channels "to strictly comply with the provisions of PEMRA Laws and Electronic Media Code of Conduct-2015 specially pertaining to children content."

PEMRA has also directed channels to constitute In-House Monitoring Committee to ensure that all the programs were reviewed and censored prior to going on air, in compliance with the provision of Electronic Media (Programmes and Advertisements) Code of Conduct 2015 as well as social and ethical values of the country.