MCM-411-Assignment

QUESTION NO.1

Article 19 of the constitution of Pakistan gives “every citizen the right of freedom of speech and expression” Do you think the citizens of Pakistan enjoys this freedom? Discuss.

ANSWER:

Every citizen shall have the right to freedom of speech and expression, and there shall be freedom of the press, subject to any reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the interest of the glory of Islam or the integrity, security or defense of Pakistan.

Every citizen has the right to: join an association/union; freedom of speech and expression; freedom of the Press is guaranteed

Every citizen shall have the right to freedom of speech and expression, and there shall be freedom of the press, subject to any reasonable restrictions imposed by law in the interest of the glory of Islam or the integrity, security or defense of Pakistan or any part thereof, friendly relations with foreign States, public order, decency or morality, or in relation to contempt of court, commission of or incitement to an offence

Blasphemy laws Main article: Blasphemy law in Pakistan

The Pakistani government does not restrict religious publishing per se. However, it restricts the right to freedom of speech with regard to religion. Speaking in opposition to Islam and publishing an attack on Islam or its prophets are prohibited. Pakistan's penal code mandates the death penalty for anyone defiling the name of Muhammad, whom Muslims view as a prophet. This penal code mandates life imprisonment for desecrating the Koran, and up to 10 years' imprisonment for insulting another's religious beliefs with intent to outrage religious feelings.

Pakistan's wickedness laws are considered to be relatively strict, and have been the source of controversy in recent years. It has been alleged in some cases that Muslims who have engaged in public debate about their religion have been prosecuted for wickedness.

QUESTION NO.2

It is a common perception that PTV doesn’t portray both sides of an issue? Do you agree? Discuss.

ANSWER:

When Pakistan Television (PTV) started broadcasting in 1964, the few hours of transmission would commence with recitation from the Holy Quran.

Advertising, too, was free of any religious images and messages. In fact, PTV’s code prohibited the use of mosques, azan, images of Namaz, etc in advertising as it was considered an exploitation of religion for commercial purposes

PTV channels are family oriented and the salient features of its policy are as follows:

• PTV Corporation's broadcasts are family oriented and they carters the need of local audience by showing eastern family programs.
• It also acts on social development theory of media, that’s why it shows informative programs about health and social issues.
• It also censors commercials and holds a conservative standard as compared to other channels.
• It supports government policies on national and international matters.