resumed its transmission on Sunday following the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority’s (Pemra) decision to uphold a 15-day suspension of the broadcaster’s licence related to a documentary aired on the 10th of Muharram. In a written verdict dated July 11, Pemra confirmed its earlier ruling from June 27, which also included a fine of Rs10 million. The channel was permitted to resume broadcasting only after completing the suspension period and settling the imposed fine.
The authority noted that had initiated corrective measures concerning the violation. The verdict mandated the termination of all individuals responsible for the broadcast of the contentious content, emphasizing that those dismissed would be barred from future employment or association with any entity licensed or regulated by Pemra, in accordance with applicable laws.
Additionally, Pemra required the broadcaster to submit an affidavit confirming adherence to these directives and a commitment to strict compliance moving forward. The authority warned that any recurrence of similar violations would result in harsher penalties, including possible licence suspension or revocation.
To prevent future infractions, Pemra instructed all licensees to establish impartial and competent in-house monitoring committees or editorial boards, as per Clause 17 of the code of conduct. These bodies must be reported to Pemra and ensure prior editorial review of all broadcasts. Furthermore, a separate directive will be issued to enforce compliance with the Supreme Court of Pakistan’s judgment in Suo Motu Case No. 28 of 2018 (PLD 2019 SC 1).
The suspension was initially imposed on June 27 after Pemra’s committee reviewed the airing of religiously sensitive visuals on June 26 during the programme “Safar-e-Ishq” on the 10th of Muharram. The case was subsequently referred to the Council of Complaints in Lahore, which deliberated over three meetings held on June 30, July 2, and July 10. Following hearings, examination of records, and consultation with the Council of Islamic Ideology, recommendations were submitted to Pemra.
In its 191st meeting on July 11, 2026, Pemra independently evaluated the recommendations, proceedings, submissions, and relevant legal provisions, including the Pemra Ordinance, 2002, and the Electronic Media (Programmes and Advertisements) Code of Conduct, 2015. The authority confirmed that had been given due notice and ample opportunity to respond through authorized representatives.
While Pemra acknowledged the broadcaster’s admission of negligence, expression of remorse, and unconditional public apologies aired across all media platforms, it stated that these mitigating factors did not negate the violation or its legal consequences.
Earlier, clarified that the programme had depicted rituals practiced by a small group in Iraq and some Middle Eastern countries. The channel emphasized that the footage was intended to portray local customs only and was not meant to represent, endorse, or promote any broader religious perspective. The material was neither produced by nor aired with any deliberate intent.
The broadcaster reaffirmed its commitment to respecting the beliefs and sensitivities of the Muslim Ummah, stating that the inclusion of the footage did not reflect its editorial stance or institutional ideology. Upon realizing the issue, the relevant content was promptly removed, and disciplinary action was taken against those responsible. Clarifications and an apology were issued before public backlash ensued.
expressed regret for any distress caused and reiterated its dedication to maintaining the highest standards of religious respect in its programming.
