Sherry Rehman orders probe into closure of private TV channels in Pakistan

Islamabad, Apr 8 : Pakistan Information and Broadcasting Minister Sherry Rehman has condemned the illegal closure of various TV channels in Karachi and directed PEMRA Chairman to investigate the matter.

According to a ministry press released, the minister vowed to unearth the elements who want to derail the democratic process in the country by committing undemocratic and uncalled for acts.

She maintained that the federal government had nothing to do with the closure of private TV networks in Karachi.

Meanwhile, the blocking of TV channels in many parts of Sindh was strongly condemned by journalists covering the assembly's proceedings. Karachi Union of Journalists (KUJ) Secretary Khurshid Abbasi and other senior journalists demanded that the new government take firm action against those responsible, reported The News.

Newly-elected Deputy Speaker of the Sindh Assembly Shehla Raza conveyed her solidarity to journalists and said the PPP had always supported the journalists' struggle and believes in the freedom of the press.

She further said that people are aware and could judge for themselves by noting the areas that were forced to shut down their transmissions. She vowed that the government would deal with those responsible according to the law and assured that it would defend the right to free access to information to the people.

ANI