Uses and Abuses of FM Radios by Militants in Former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) and Provincially Administered Tribal Areas (PATA), Pakistan

Abstract

Abstract

This research deals with the uses of abuses of FM radios in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and the recently merged districts – former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) during the period ranging from 2003 to 2018. Radio is the most effective mean of mass communication. The rapid increase in FM radios and its cheap and easy operation was a source of attraction for many to disseminate their message. The use of FM radio has been on the rapid rise for the last nearly two decades, both for propaganda, political and commercial purposes. The government, private entities and some anti-state elements have made effective use of this media tool. This study analyses the role of government and non-state actors’ launched FM radio stations, which include both the legal stations and the pirated or illegal ones. The objectives and functions of Government run FM radio have been discussed. The use of the FM radio for promotion of Islamic teachings has also been thoroughly looked into. Its use by different militant outfits for propagating their message has also been covered. The commercial use of the tool by private entities has also been taken into account.