At least 17 officials of the Pakistan state broadcaster PTV lost their jobs after they failed to properly cover the Lahore visit of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif last month, reportedly because of the non-availability of functioning laptops.

The action came on 25 April after the broadcaster used only audio of the event held in Lahore on 24 April in their reporting instead of the video of the event. Reports claimed that the local crew of the PTV was not provided with advanced gadgets and laptops by the PTV headquarters needed for the fast transmission of footage.

Usually, the visits of the prime minister are covered by a specialized crew equipped with high-end gadgets and computers. However, during the Lahore visit, the local team was asked to cover it. The headquarters failed to provide them with the necessary equipment in time.

Among the officials suspended for the lapse are including VVIP coverage deputy controller, Lahore centre general manager, the head of current affairs, apart from engineers, cameramen, and others for allegedly neglecting their duties.
(SAM)