ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) has issued orders suspending the transmission of Geo News for 15 days over what it described as “unacceptable religious depiction” during a programme aired on 10th Muharram.
According to an order issued by the regulator, the action relates to the programme Safar-e-Ishq, broadcast on June 26, 2026. Pemra said the programme contained religious portrayals and visual representations that were “unacceptable” and violated the terms of the channel’s licence as well as country’s religious, social and cultural values.
The regulator maintained the content was in violation of multiple provisions of the Pemra Ordinance, relevant rules and the Electronic Media Code of Conduct, and had hurt, or was likely to hurt, the religious sentiments of viewers.
Pemra said the decision to suspend the channel’s licence was taken to prevent harm to religious harmony and public sentiment. It added broadcasters are required to exercise due caution while airing religious programmes and that Geo News had failed to ensure adequate internal editorial oversight.
Under the order, Geo News licence has been suspended with an immediate effect for 15 days. The suspension will apply to satellite transmission and all broadcast distribution networks. Pemra directed all distributors and operators to ensure immediate compliance with the order.
The regulator further said the matter would also be referred to the Pemra Council of Complaints for further proceedings and recommendations regarding any additional regulatory action.
Pemra also directed Geo News to conduct an internal inquiry into the incident and to ensure that similar violations do not occur in the future.
