Telecom

Zong Tricked PEMRA by Re-Airing Offensive Commercials, Gets a Ban from Authority

The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority made objections on the TVCs of Chinese brands OPPO and Zong last month. PEMRA told that it has received numerous complaints against these advertisements, as they’re offensive and distasteful for Pakistani audience.

The Authority gave broadcasters and the brands 3 days to make amendments in the commercials or it will permanently ban them.

OPPO replaced the commercial entirely and Zong edited it to remove inappropriate content with in the given time, so PEMRA won’t take any actions against them.

Zong tried to hoodwink PEMRA’s instructions:

PEMRA has issued a press release today and informed the Pakistan Broadcasters Association to block Zong 4G advertisement with immediate effect. This action has been taken because Zong tried to hoodwink PEMRA’s instructions and started airing the same offensive commercial once again.

PEMRA says that in case of non-compliance by the broadcasters and TV channels the Authority will take action under section 29 and 30 of PEMRA ordinance.

It merits mentioning here that under the section 29 and 30 PEMRA could impose heavy fines on TV channels or cancel their licenses. Moreover the authority could also ban Zong from advertising on TV channels for an indefinite period of time.