Statement from Evanov Communications Inc. regarding CRTC Gill Broadcasting Ltd. – Winnipeg, Manitoba Decisions released today

Winnipeg, December 10, 2024 - Evanov Communications Inc. (ECI) acknowledges the CRTC's decisions in Mandatory Orders 2024-321 and 2024-322, addressing Gill Broadcasting Ltd.’s (Gill) non-compliance with broadcasting regulations. These orders prohibit Gill and its principal, Baldev Gill, from operating any broadcasting undertakings in Canada unless fully compliant and require prior CRTC approval for any activities under an Exemption Order.

Gill Broadcasting Ltd., operating as Radio Awaz, was granted an exemption in 2016 for a low-power tourist station in Winnipeg. However, upon its launch, the station was promoted and branded as Winnipeg’s first 24/7 South Asian station—far exceeding the scope of its exemption. This occurred despite ECI’s objections, as CKJS, its licensed and compliant ethnic station, was already serving Winnipeg’s South Asian community.

Over the past eight years, ECI has consistently voiced its concerns, culminating in the CRTC’s issuance of Broadcasting Notice of Consultation 2024-182. The CRTC observed that Gill Broadcasting Ltd. “appeared to be carrying on a broadcasting undertaking in whole or in part in Canada without a broadcasting licence or a valid exemption from holding a licence.” In the intervening years, Gill also launched 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. 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, stated:

“The measures announced today 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. 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.”

Evanov Communications Inc. remains dedicated to serving Winnipeg’s multilingual community with high-quality, compliant programming through CKJS in 16 different languages. ECI looks forward to continuing its contributions to Canada’s diverse media landscape.

Evanov Communications is an independent private Canadian broadcasting company. A list of stations it operates, and locations can be found at www.evanov.ca

Media Contact: Lisete Culley, Executive Director; lculley@evanov.ca, 416-213-1035 x 140