Tarar: FIA Probe Confirms APP Corruption, Political Pressure Attempts Rejected

ISLAMABAD — Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar has said the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) registered a case in the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) corruption scandal after a comprehensive inquiry confirmed serious violations.

Speaking at a meeting of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting at PEMRA Headquarters, Tarar revealed that certain individuals implicated in the case had attempted to use political influence to secure reinstatement. However, APP’s management, led by Managing Director Muhammad Asim Khichi, strongly resisted pressure and took firm action to uphold transparency.

“No one will escape accountability under political influence. The FIA inquiry is thorough, and I am personally monitoring progress to ensure impartial action,” Tarar stressed.

The minister also briefed the committee on Pakistan Television’s (PTV) financial crisis following the withdrawal of subsidies. He highlighted rising costs from hiring foreign experts and technical equipment for international cricket coverage.

Despite challenges, PTV Sports enjoys viewership nearly twice as high as private sports channels, reflecting its relevance as the state broadcaster. Tarar added that PTV World is undergoing a revamp, while outsourcing PTV Home is under consideration. He also urged support for downsizing and restructuring to stabilize finances.

Media Regulation and PEMRA Updates

The committee reviewed multiple issues, including:

• PEMRA’s Council of Complaints formation.
• Web-TV and OTT regulation, with draft rules pending cabinet approval.
• Updates on FM radio licensing, with 171 commercial and 68 non-commercial stations already operational.

Tarar further urged private TV channels to air public service messages during peak viewing hours, instead of late-night slots, to maximize public benefit.

Committee members expressed concern over delayed PTV salaries and pensions. Officials clarified that payments had been cleared until June 30, 2025, while the Finance Division pledged Rs 11 billion annually, released quarterly, though arrears remain.

On journalist safety, Tarar assured he would personally contact the Sindh IG Police regarding the murder of journalist Khawar Hussain in Sanghar, with a follow-up report to be presented.

The meeting concluded with prayers for flood victims in KPK, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan. Members also congratulated Tarar and Secretary Information Ambreen Jan on receiving civil awards for their contributions to the media sector.

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