Principles of Mass Media: An Analysis of PEMRA`s Principles about Social and Religious Values in the Light of Islamic Teachings

It’s a scholarly observation that a modern state has three pillars; executive, legislative and judiciary while media is called fourth pillar of a state. However, due to its controversy and importance, media is called watch dog of the society and state. Media is considered main source of every kind of information throughout the world. However, the contradictory application of media is a major issue in the contemporary Islamic society. It’s also perceived, media is playing role of propaganda machine against religious ethics and norms especially against Islamic way of life in global world. Pakistan is including one of the country where media is not playing a suitable role for social and moral development. National and local media of Pakistan is imitating western and global culture and civilizations. Media channels are violating rules and regulations of Pakistan electronic media regulatory authority (PEMRA) in addition with Islamic and social values.  But sorry to say this forum is failed to overcome these issues in Pakistan. In this context, this study explores Islamic perspective upon importance of media principles and violation of religious and social rules of PEMRA by electronic and print Media. In this study analytical and critical research methodology has been adopted with qualitative approach. According to PEMRA rules and Islamic teachings, misreporting, transmission of vulgarity, obscene and broadcasting of sensational and wrong news have been strictly forbidden. But it’s observed, mostly media channels are violating Islamic and PEMRA’s rules clearly. Therefore, it’s recommended PEMRA rules must be followed with Islamic principles of media to overcome these issues in Pakistan.