ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has suspended ARY News’ broadcast license for 15 days and imposed a Rs. 10 million fine over the airing of a program deemed derogatory toward the judiciary.
PEMRA Finds ARY’s Program in Violation of Media Code
The decision was taken during a special session of PEMRA members convened in Islamabad. The meeting reviewed an episode of the talk show “Khara Sach”, hosted by Mubashar Lucman, and concluded that the content violated the authority’s code of conduct for electronic media.
In addition to the license suspension and financial penalty, PEMRA banned Mubashar Lucman and his program, prohibiting him from appearing on any television platform in any capacity — whether as a host, guest, analyst, or otherwise — in line with orders from the Lahore High Court.
Legal Action Against ARY Executives and Anchors
The regulatory crackdown follows the Lahore High Court’s issuance of bailable arrest warrants against Salman Iqbal (CEO, ARY News), Mubashar Lucman, show producer Rao Awais, and Asim Malik — the owner of Future Concern Associates, who appeared on the controversial episode and made serious allegations against Justice Syed Mazahar Ali Akbar Naqvi.
Despite court summons, all four individuals failed to appear, prompting the issuance of arrest warrants.
Exit Control List and Further Hearings
Justice Naqvi, who also took suo moto notice of the issue, ordered that Mubashar Lucman’s name be placed on the Exit Control List (ECL). He further summoned key officials including the Attorney General of Pakistan, Punjab Advocate General, Director General of the FIA, and Lahore District Coordination Officer (DCO) for the next hearing scheduled for October 21.
The episode in question featured Asim Malik, who accused Justice Naqvi of misconduct in connection with Malik’s immigration consultancy firm, Future Concern Associates.
Media Accountability Under Scrutiny
The incident has reignited debates over media responsibility, the limits of journalistic freedom, and the role of regulatory oversight in protecting the integrity of state institutions, particularly the judiciary.
PEMRA reiterated that content undermining the judiciary or any other pillar of the state would not be tolerated and would be met with legal action.
