RTUKs Last Punishment For Four TV Channels

The Radio and Television Higher Board (RTUK) ordered two television programs off the air and handed six warnings to a total of four national television stations on April 13, 2004.

It also asked for a defense statement.

National television stations "TGRT" and "Show TV" received three warnings each from RTUK because of entertainment and women's programs.

RTUK ordered a program on the national "ATV" station off the air, and warned TGRT, saying the two channels broadcasted "programs that could hurt the physical, mental and moral development of the youth and the children."

RTUK ordered programs off the air on national televisions "ATV" and "CNN Turk."

RTUK ordered a program off the air once on both ATV and CNN Turk saying their broadcasts violated certain articles of the law no: 3984 on the establishment and operation of radio and television stations.

The radio and television watchdog said the women's program "A to Z with Esra Ceyhan" broadcasted on ATV on January 19 and 20 "could hurt the physical, mental and moral development of the youth and the children."

RTUK ordered a program off the air on CNN Turk saying on January 13, it violated article 20 on the form and presentation of advertisements.

Three warnings to TGRT, and one defense order

RTUK warned the national stations TGRT and Show TV three times each.

Show TV received the three warnings separately, for organizing contests over the phone, "encouraging violence and discrimination against women, the weak and minors," and for accepting financial contribution for news programs.

TGRT received the warnings for violating the principle that programs should be respectful to the people's honor and the basic human rights, for broadcasting "programs that could hurt the physical, mental and moral development of the youth and the children," and for violating advertising principles.

RTUK also asked for a defense statement from TGRT. (EO/BB/EA/YE)