The striking feature about this process is that the changes to the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) Ordinance, 2002, some of which will radically alter the playing field to the detriment of the broadcasters, have been proposed without any formal consultation with the stakeholders – neither were the legislators adequately sensitized about the issues nor were any representatives of the radio or TV sector or consumer and media interest groups invited for their inputs.

The proposed amendments aim to toughen the regulatory regime by blurring the distinction between news media and entertainment media by way of equating broadcasters (who generate original content) with cable channel distributors (who are not media outlets). It is not that PEMRA Ordinance 2002 was too good to be amended; it is just that the progressive development of the broadcast sector may convert to a regression if the changes are approved without a proper debate inside and outside parliament.

Here are some of the salient aspects of the proposed amendment to the broadcast law.

Arrest and prosecution of broadcasters made easy

Regulator assumes decisive numerical superiority over broadcasters

Surprise raids and forced recovery of arrears

Cancellation of broadcast license made easy

Degree of judicial respite for broadcaster reduced

Content control by regulator enhanced

Right to freedom of expression as licensing criterion scrapped

Regulator seeks to be both judge and jury

Broadcasters stripped of constitutional guarantees

Fines and penalties on broadcasters increased ten-fold

Perks and privileges for regulatory allies

Profiting from regulation of broadcasters