The member of the chareidi community who were outraged over the scathing remarks made on “Nonstop Radio” (Radio L’Lo Hafsaka) by host Gabi Gazit can register a measured victory, a NIS 30,000 fine against the station.
As was reported by YWN-ISRAEL, Gazit lashed out against the chareidi community, calling its members “parasites and leeches” but the response was minimal, other than outrage from members and leaders of Israel’s chareidi community.
The director-general of Israel’s Channel 2, Samira Keva ruled that the station must be fined in response to the offensive broadcast against an entire segment of the population, far exceeding the acceptable norms of a democratic society and free speech.
Keva also has decided that a senior representative of the station will have to take to the airwaves during prime time, to express the station’s disapproval of Gazit’s remarks. (It is noteworthy to remind readers that while Gazit offered an explanation, he refused to issue an apology since he stands by the remarks as they were released).
Keva suggests the station air a program that entails hosting experts, to discuss how much latitude is granted under freedom of expression and where one crosses a red line in verbal assaults against segments of the population.
Gazit made his remarks on April 21st, and despite complaints from chareidi lawmakers and citizens alike, police and state prosecution officials stated his distasteful sentiments were not a violation of laws prohibiting incitement.
Station officials stated that despite the fact Gazit ‘explained’ his statements to the satisfaction of Channel 2 officials; they are being hit with a higher fine than anticipated. At present, they are studying the decision and they may decide to appeal it in the future.
(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)
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3 Responses
i am sure they more than made up that fine.
the only thing Izzy’s understand is boycotts.
What are they doing with that money?
Gazit was totally wrong to make such outrageous comments.
However, we in the Charedi community need to recognize that many of our own see it as their right to demand support and services from the Government without making a contribution.
Bochurim and Yungerleit to sit and learn should see it as a privilege not a right.
The individuals who are not learning all day everyday should better go and get a job ans thereby support themselves and their families.
That would create a Kiddush HaShem in the country.