Cable operator stop telecast of three channels in Kashmir

Srinagar Mar 5 (UNI) Cable TV operators in Kashmir valley have suspended the telecast of three English-language channels and viewing of Kashmiri songs from today following threat by two militant outfits.

Al-Badr and Al-Madina Regiment, who claimed responsibility for most of the fidayeen attacks in the valley, have imposed a ban on cable operators.

They threatened to attack broadcast installations if the ''obscene programmes'' were not stopped immediately.

A spokesman of the Kashmir Cable Network (KCN) Mohammad Ashraf told UNI that they have stopped three channels-- Star Movies, Star World and Sony Pic-- with effect from today because of threats made by the militant outfits.

The outfits, without specifying what programmes they were banning, called for an end to ''obscenity'' on cable television.

Mr Ashraf said they have already stopped AXN, HBO and some other foreign channels showing obscene programmes.

He said they have also stopped showing Kashmiri songs in which girls wearing different outfits other than Kashmiri dress were participating.

Last year, cable operators in Kashmir suspended operations after militant groups threatened to launch suicide attacks on their centres.

Howevere, they resumed transmission after the ban was lifted.

About a dozen cable operators were also attacked by the unknown gunmen in the valley during the past three years.

UNI