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News Topical, Digital Desk : While the world is mourning the death of legendary Indian singer Asha Bhosle , a major controversy has erupted in Pakistan over tributes to her.
Pakistan's media watchdog, PEMRA (Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority), has issued a show-cause notice to a prominent news channel. Read the full story below.
Why was a notice sent on the coverage of Asha Bhosle's death?
Following heightened tensions between the two countries in 2019, Pakistan completely banned the broadcast of Indian films and content. According to a report by news agency PTI, PEMRA has issued a notice to Geo News, asking why it used Indian songs and visuals during its coverage of Asha Bhosle's death. The authority states that this is a direct violation of a Pakistan Supreme Court ruling that prohibited the use of Indian content.
Managing Director Azhar Abbas gave a befitting reply
Following the show-cause notice, Azhar Abbas, Managing Director of Pakistani channel Geo News, responded sharply to PEMRA on the social media platform X. He wrote in his post,
Questioning the limitations of art within national boundaries, Azhar Abbas further wrote, "Asha Bhosle herself was a huge fan of legendary Pakistani singer Noor Jehan and fondly called her her elder sister. She worked with legendary singers like Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. In times of war and tension, art and artists should not be dragged into politics. Musicians and artists are the ones who unite against hatred and bridge distances, bringing people closer."
Warning of cancellation of license
The Pakistani media regulator (PEMRA) cited violations of the 2015 Code of Conduct and Broadcasting Regulations in its show-cause notice. The authority directed the CEO of Geo News' owner, Messrs. Independent Media Corporation, to submit a written response within 14 days and appear before it by April 27. It also warned that if they fail to provide a satisfactory response, the channel could face heavy fines or even have its license revoked.
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