PEMRA suspends licenses of Geo TV Network; orders to seal offices

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has suspended the licenses of Geo News, Geo Taiz and Geo Entertainment on immediate basis, while countrywide offices of these channels are also ordered to be sealed – ARY News reports.

According to details, the meeting of PEMRA members held today on Geo issue, which concluded after a while ago.

Talking to media after the meeting, PEMRA member, Mian Shams ur Rahman formally announced to suspend the licenses of Geo News, Geo Taiz and Geo Entertainment. PEMRA body also ordered for sealing the offices of these channels all over the country.

Mian Shams also said that Mir Shakil ur Rehman tried to lure PEMRA members and also telephoned him, which wasn't responded.

Israr Abbasi said that quorum of PEMRA body requires one-third majority of the members, and the members present at the meeting unanimously decided to suspend the licenses.

He told that PEMRA has also written to the Ministry of Interior for security clearance of 4 licenses of Geo TV Network.

Israr told that the licenses of above mentioned channels were suspended for acting and building public perception against national interests, after acquiring funds from foreign countries and the decision was made under the light of numerous recommendations.

It was further stated that a detailed and final verdict shall be issued on May 28.