The CRTC has issued an order prohibiting Gill Broadcasting from illegally operating a South Asian radio station in Winnipeg.

The decision follows numerous complaints from Winnipeg multi-ethnic station CKJS-FM, owned by Evanov Communications, over the past eight years that a tourist information station was carrying on programming without a broadcast licence. Gill Broadcasting, helmed by Gill and Baldev Gill, had been operating CKYG-FM Winnipeg at 90.5 MHz as an exempt low-power tourist information radio station.

Following a hearing last month, the commission has barred the Gills from having any involvement with any broadcast undertaking that isn’t in full compliance with the Broadcast Act.

Operating as Radio Awaz, Evanov says since Gill Broadcasting was granted an exemption for a low-power tourist station in 2016, the station was promoted and branded as  Winnipeg’s first 24/7 South Asian station – exceeding the scope of its exemption and above ECI’s objections, with its licensed ethnic station already serving that community.

While continuing to voice its concerns, ECI says Gill Broadcasting went on to launch a second low-power station under another exemption order, initially offering differentiated  programming, but later using it as a repeater for its first station before shutting it down.

“These actions significantly harmed CKJS, depriving it of opportunities to grow and develop its programming for the South Asian community,” Evanov said in a release. “CKJS was further impacted by the loss of its star announcer, producer, and salesperson—individuals who relied on support from Winnipeg’s South Asian business community to sustain their work.” 

Carmela Laurignano, ECI’s Vice President & Regulatory Affairs, said the commission measures announced this week underscore the importance of maintaining compliance with broadcasting regulations and ensuring a level playing field.

“ECI is encouraged by the decision and implores the Commission to promptly address offenders who undermine the integrity of the regulatory system, while supporting licensed broadcasters who fulfill their obligations,” said Laurignano. “This decision follows an arduous eight-year journey for ECI with this matter, undertaken at considerable expense. We hope lessons will be drawn for the benefit and well-being of our industry.”