ISLAMABAD (MNN); Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar has said that a mafia has taken control of Pakistan Television and made it clear that either the mafia will remain or he will. He also revealed that a gardener in Islamabad was appointed as a producer at PTV.
He expressed these views while speaking at a meeting of the National Assembly Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting held in Islamabad. Committee members voiced concern over delays in the appointments of heads of PEMRA and Pakistan Television.
The committee directed that the process for appointing heads of institutions should begin before the completion of the incumbent’s tenure.
During the meeting, it was disclosed that renovation work at PTV had been carried out without following the tendering process. The committee instructed PTV management to present complete records in the next meeting.
The committee also indicated that a detailed discussion on PTV’s overall performance would be held in the next session and considered forming a sub-committee to address the broadcaster’s affairs.
Addressing the meeting, Attaullah Tarar reiterated that PTV had fallen under the grip of a mafia, adding that he would prefer to step aside rather than bow to pressure. He said PTV could not function effectively with 10,000 employees and stressed that he would rather go home than seek recommendations from any anchor.
Committee members observed that political appointments had given rise to mafias within public sector institutions. They also expressed hope for cooperation with the newly appointed Information Secretary.
While discussing media advertisements, the information minister said that their benefits do not reach ordinary employees. He pointed out that in many media houses, drivers and technicians are not being paid their dues.
Attaullah Tarar informed the committee that a new Wage Board Award would be announced soon. The committee was also briefed on progress regarding the formation of the Information Commission.
The standing committee unanimously approved amendments to the PEMRA Act. Meanwhile, the selection committee has forwarded a name for the post of PEMRA chairman to the parliamentary committee.
