PEMRA Suspends Geo News Transmission for 15 Days Over Religious Content, Orders Inquiry
Key Developments:
- PEMRA has suspended Geo News’ transmission for 15 days over a programme that allegedly contained religious visualisation deemed to have hurt public sentiments.
- The regulator has directed cable operators and satellite distributors to immediately implement the suspension order.
- Geo News has been instructed to conduct an internal inquiry, while the matter has also been referred to the relevant Council of Complaints for further proceedings.
ISLAMABAD — June 28, 2026: The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has suspended the transmission of Geo News for 15 days after concluding that content aired during the programme Safar Ishq violated provisions of the country’s electronic media regulations concerning religious broadcasts.
According to the regulator, the action follows the airing of material on June 26 that allegedly contained religious visualisation considered inconsistent with established regulatory guidelines governing religious programming. The suspension took effect immediately after the issuance of the order.
TUI Airways Boeing 737 Grounded in Palma de Mallorca Following Tail Strike Incident
Death anniversary of renowned artist Begum Khursheed Shahid being observed today
India destroying peace through covert operations, proxy elements: PM Shehbaz
In its official notification, PEMRA stated that the broadcast contained “unacceptable religious depictions” which, according to the regulator, were “not only a violation of the licence but also against religious, social and cultural values and principles.”
The authority further stated that the programme had “hurt religious sentiments” and could adversely affect religious harmony, forming the basis for regulatory action under the applicable provisions of the PEMRA Ordinance and related rules.
As part of the order, PEMRA directed all satellite operators, cable television distributors and other licensed distribution platforms to immediately suspend Geo News’ transmission for the specified period.
The regulator also instructed Geo News to conduct an internal inquiry into the editorial process that resulted in the broadcast and submit its findings, along with proposed corrective measures, during proceedings before the Council of Complaints. The council will review the matter and may issue further recommendations after hearing the parties involved.
Cockroach Janta Party steps up protest, launches ‘Pradhan Go Back’ campaign
Systematic assault on Muslim education to erase their Identity in Modi’s India
India’s Bullet Train Project Accelerates Towards Reality
In its statement, PEMRA said broadcasters are expected to exercise particular caution while airing religious content and maintain effective editorial oversight to ensure compliance with the Electronic Media Code of Conduct.
The notification stated: “Geo News was required to exercise caution while broadcasting religious programmes,” adding that the broadcaster’s internal mechanisms had failed to prevent the disputed content from being aired.
The regulator further noted that the transmission “will remain suspended on satellite and all broadcasting networks,” directing distributors to ensure full implementation of the order.
The latest action comes amid heightened regulatory attention to religious programming during Muharram, with PEMRA having previously issued advisories reminding television channels to observe legal and ethical broadcasting standards when covering religious events.
Trump Accuses Iran of Firing 4 Drones at Ships in Strait of Hormuz, Calls It ‘Foolish’ Violation
JKCA Suspends President Javid Ahmed Kitab with Immediate Effect
Media regulation remains closely linked to Article 19 of Pakistan’s Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech and freedom of the press while permitting reasonable restrictions in the interests of the glory of Islam, national security, public order, decency, morality and other grounds specified by law.
The broadcaster had not publicly issued a detailed response at the time of the suspension order. Further proceedings are expected before the Council of Complaints, which will review the matter and determine whether any additional regulatory action is warranted.
The case has generated discussion among legal experts, journalists and media observers regarding the balance between editorial independence, constitutional protections for free expression and broadcasters’ responsibilities under Pakistan’s media laws. Any assessment regarding the appropriateness or severity of the penalty remains a matter of opinion unless determined through the legal and regulatory process.
Air India Ends International Laundry Service as Pakistan Airspace Ban Drives Up Losses
US-India Interim Trade Deal Faces Uncertainty as New Delhi Pushes for Preferential Terms
India to Resume Tourist Visas for Bangladeshi Nationals from June 28
Twin Powerful Earthquakes Rock Venezuela, Causing Widespread Panic and Destruction in Caracas
Air India Flight Briefly Enters Pakistani Airspace Near Lahore During Amritsar Go-Around
Stay tuned to Baaghi TV for more. Download our app for the latest news, updates & uncensored content!
Further Reads
