Hashmi, who had previously been imprisoned for his controversial remarks against judiciary, while addressing a function at the Karachi Medical and Dental College on Friday, reportedly said that the armed forces had "done nothing for the defence and betterment of the country" and that the weapons acquired for the defence were "merely showpieces". The politician's speech was subsequently broadcast on TV channels - something which Pemra has deemed a violation of its code of conduct.
The regulatory body, in its notification yesterday, asked news channels why they had aired the speech of an individual who has a history of making controversial remarks. It also asked the said channels to explain why they should not be punished with a fine or even a suspension.