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Pakistan Bans Live Coverage of Security Incidents Amid Rising Violence

Pakistan Bans Live Coverage of Security Incidents Amid Rising Violence

First seen 21 Oct 2026, 16:43 UTC • •
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ThreatCluster AI
ThreatCluster •October 21, 2026 at 17:41 UTC
  • •PEMRA has banned live coverage of terrorist attacks and security incidents in Pakistan.
  • •The directive requires news channels to air only verified information from law enforcement.
  • •Media organizations warn that this move threatens press freedom and independent reporting.

On October 13, 2026, Pakistan's Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) issued a directive prohibiting live coverage of terrorist attacks and other security incidents. This order, which reiterates a previous prohibition from February 2023, mandates that news channels only broadcast verified information from law enforcement agencies. The directive was implemented following a spike in violence in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where attacks have reportedly increased since 2024. Media organizations have criticized the ban, arguing it restricts independent reporting and may be used to target specific outlets. PEMRA's warning of legal action for non-compliance raises concerns about press freedom in Pakistan. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and other press freedom advocates have called for the withdrawal of the directive, emphasizing the need for responsible journalism during crises.

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Timeline

2023-02-20
Initial prohibition order issued
PEMRA first banned live coverage of security incidents, citing concerns over media use by terrorists.
Ifj
2026-10-11
State of emergency declared in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
The federal government imposed emergency measures due to rising violence in the province.
Ifj
2026-10-13
PEMRA issues new directive
PEMRA reiterated its ban on live coverage, directing channels to use verified information only.
Ifj
2026-10-17
Press freedom group condemns new restrictions
The Committee to Protect Journalists called for the withdrawal of PEMRA's restrictions, citing risks to independent reporting.
Morungexpress

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Common questions

What does the PEMRA directive entail?
The directive prohibits live broadcasts of terrorist attacks and requires channels to air only verified information from law enforcement.
How has the media reacted to this ban?
Media organizations have criticized the ban, arguing it restricts independent reporting and threatens press freedom.
What are the potential legal consequences for non-compliance?
PEMRA has warned that violations of the directive could lead to legal action under the PEMRA Ordinance.