RaajjeTV resumes on-air services

Private television channel, RaajjeTV resumed its on-air services this Sunday, after self-imposed suspension of its regular broadcast claiming lack of safety and security for free and independent media.

RaajjeTV suspended its transmission on February 8, after Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) warned any media station which broadcasts content which may threaten national security will be penalized without warning.

RaajjeTV said in its statement announcing the resumption of its services that they decided to lift the self-imposed suspension as per viewers request.

It said it asked for assurance of a safe environment in which to work in from the Maldives Broadcasting Commission, Maldives Police Service and MNDF, before resuming its services. But that it did not receive a satisfactory response from any of the institutions.

Ministry of Defense said it a statement it issued on February 6, that the State had taken note of live programs which spread information to the public through various mediums creating fear among the public and threatening the peace.

The ministry expressed concern, and warned to immediately cease spread of any information which may threaten the national security and impede the military from performing its duties.

“Action will be taken against parties which spread news content which may threaten the national security of Maldives, without any prior warning,” read the ministry’s statement.