Cable operators go on 24-hour strike

KARACHI: The Cable Operators of Pakistan (CAP) has said that it will go on strike and all private channels will go off air for 24 hours from 12 noon Aaj TV reported on Saturday.

The strike, it said, was in protest against the raids carried out by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA).

However, the association said the cable operators will go on an indefinite strike if the mis-behaviour against them continues by PEMRA.

According to the announcement, all independent television channels will remain shut throughout the country including Geo News, Geo Entertainment and Geo Super for the duration.

This was announced at a press conference called in by officials of CAP.

Chairman of the association, Khalid Arain told the media that cable operators across the country are facing raids from PEMRA officials upon complaints lodged by Geo Television Network.

He said that even though there has been no agreement between the association and the said television network the PEMRA officials launched crackdowns at offices of cable operators and have seized technical equipment and electronic systems.

The association has threatened to extend the duration of the strike if the seized equipment is  not returned soon.