The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has suspended the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority’s (PEMRA) notification that made the participation of defence analysts in television programs contingent upon obtaining permission from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

The court heard a case challenging the notification, which stipulated that only retired armed forces officers could appear on television programs discussing defense matters, and that their participation required ISPR approval.

Justice Babar Sattar issued a written order on Thursday, suspending the PEMRA notification (issued in 2019) until the case is decided.

The court noted that PEMRA’s lawyer did not appear in court, and the assisting lawyer requested an adjournment due to the senior lawyer’s illness. Based on the arguments presented, the court ruled to suspend the notification.

The IHC order explicitly states that the PEMRA notification will remain suspended until a final decision is reached in this case. The next hearing has been adjourned until February 11.