MUMBAI: The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) just proved that it means what it says. Earlier today, it issued a directive to the country’s private news channels to abstain from telecasting live coverage of a crackdown operation in the country’s capital. Channels violating the order were suspended.

The directive stated that under the Electronic Media Code of 2015, live coverage of any security operation is prohibited. News channels were asked to exhibit utmost sensitivity in their telecast. “The clause permits airing of only those parts which is warranted by the security agency in charge of the operation, “ said PEMRA’s order.

Some reports suggest that the authority has temporarily placed a ban on channels in Islamabad. They also said the same could be done for social media channels such as Facebook and Twitter but, for now, channel like Geo TV, BOL Network, and Capital TV are showing the live coverage on their respective websites.

Media houses have been asked to ensure the safety of their employees and journalists and camera crew are permitted to only go up to designated points. Violations will be acted upon with strict action under PEMRA laws.

The Islamabad police launched a crackdown today on protestors camping in the Faizabad area since 8 November.