Islamabad, December 26, 2023: The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has issued a stern warning to all its licensees, including satellite television channels, radio stations, landing rights permission holders, and distribution network operators, against the broadcast or distribution of advertisements for surrogate companies.
The warning, effective immediately, comes as part of the authority’s efforts to crack down on the promotion of gambling and betting by such entities during sports events telecast or broadcast in the country.
In a prohibition letter addressed to all licensees, PEMRA emphasized that this directive is in continuation of its earlier correspondence, where the office memorandum and advisory issued by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Islamabad, regarding “Zero Tolerance for Surrogate Companies,” were circulated for compliance.
Citing its powers vested under Section 27(a) of the PEMRA Ordinance 2002, as amended by the PEMRA (Amendment) Act 2023, PEMRA unequivocally prohibited the broadcast or distribution of advertisements for surrogate companies promoting gambling or betting in various sports events. The matter has been referred to the Council of Complaints (Islamabad) for appropriate recommendations to the Authority.
The warning stated, “In case of non-compliance and/or on repeated violation, legal proceedings under relevant provisions of PEMRA laws shall be initiated,” making it clear that the regulatory body is prepared to take stringent action against those who defy the directive.
This move aligns with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy against surrogate companies associated with betting houses. In an earlier advisory, the Ministry urged all ministries, departments, and organizations to refrain from engaging in any contracts or cooperation with surrogate companies illegally operating in Pakistan, especially across print, electronic, and social media platforms.
The crackdown on surrogate companies is part of a broader effort to maintain the integrity of media content and prevent the promotion of activities that may have legal and ethical implications. The linkage of these entities with gambling and betting practices during sports events underscores the authorities’ determination to curtail any potential negative impact on society.
As the warning takes effect, media outlets are expected to adhere to the directive and cease the promotion of surrogate companies involved in activities that violate the established legal and ethical standards. PEMRA’s move signals a commitment to upholding the integrity of media platforms and ensuring that they are not exploited for promoting activities that may have adverse consequences for the public and the nation as a whole.
