IHC stresses on code of conduct for media in anchorperson contempt case

ISLAMABAD: Islamabad High Court highlighted the need to devise a code of conduct for media during the hearing of a contempt of court case.

Senior news anchors, Chairman PEMRA and representatives of Pakistan Broadcasting Authority (PBA) were present in the hearing presided over by Chief Justice IHC Athar Minallah.

“A ticker on the media could create an impression about a person that he is corrupt,” Justice Athar Minallah pointed out. “The freedom of media is also important. The court has to take the decision over the matter,” the chief justice said.

He called for the cooperation of the learned anchorpersons over the issue. The Chief Justice in an exchange of words has said that only the code of conduct of the PEMRA is not sufficient. “If you have to say something about us express it, but no analysis or comment is advisable over the cases under the court hearing,” the justice said.

Also Read: PEMRA chairman submits unconditional apology in IHC

Justice Athar Minallah highlighted the need for formulating terms and conditions with regard to the media. “The talk shows don’t discuss the issues of common man,” the justice remarked.  He urged that “Try to educate people about the law,”.

The bench adjourned the hearing of the case till the next date.