Islamabad: The Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting convened to express serious concern over the persistent non-payment and delays in salaries to media workers, emphasizing the need for timely financial compensation. The meeting, held at the Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation (PBC) Headquarters, was chaired by Mr. Pullain Baloch, MNA.

According to National Assembly of Pakistan, the Committee reiterated that timely payment is a fundamental responsibility of media organizations and urged authorities to protect the financial rights of media workers. The Committee unanimously demanded that all outstanding salaries be cleared without further delay and requested comprehensive details of pending salaries and financial dues from media organizations.

The Committee also addressed the prolonged delay in completing the PBC Shortwave Transmitters project in Karachi, initially approved in the 2006-07 financial year. A detailed report on the project’s current status, incurred expenses, and remaining financial needs was requested, with a call for explanations for the delay and a timeline for completion. The Committee aims to summon Finance and Planning Divisions to explain the non-release of funds for the project.

Furthermore, the Committee discussed television morning show content, directing the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) to establish a comprehensive code of conduct to ensure programming aligns with public interest and legal standards. PEMRA was also instructed to provide details of television channels’ pending liabilities and the steps being taken for their recovery.

Recognizing the media’s critical role in public information and democratic processes, the Committee highlighted the importance of a responsible media adhering to professional and ethical standards. Departments and regulatory authorities were directed to submit requested information promptly, with a follow-up on these matters scheduled for the next meeting. Additionally, PBC was instructed to introduce programs and news bulletins in all regional languages on Radio Pakistan.

The meeting was attended by several Members of the National Assembly, the Parliamentary Secretary for Information, the Secretary of the Ministry of Information, the Chairperson of PEMRA, and other relevant officials.