The notice has triggered a wider debate in Pakistan over media regulation, cultural exchange, and freedom of expression.
Geo News response
Azhar Abbas, Managing Director of Geo News and president of the Association of Electronic Media Editors and News Directors in Pakistan, confirmed the development in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
He argued that it has traditionally been standard journalistic practice to revisit and celebrate the work of iconic artists after their death. Abbas said that for an artist of Asha Bhosle’s stature, more of her music and legacy could have been showcased, not less.
However, he said the regulator’s action amounted to restricting such coverage, despite its cultural and artistic relevance.
Reason cited by PEMRA
According to the notice issued on Sunday, PEMRA objected to Geo News broadcasting Indian songs and film visuals while reporting on Asha Bhosle’s passing.
The regulator described this as a “wilful defiance” of a 2018 judgment of the Supreme Court of Pakistan, which had prohibited the airing of Indian content on television channels in the country.
The notice also cited Section 20(f) of the PEMRA Ordinance, 2002, which requires broadcasters to comply with approved programming codes and maintain internal monitoring systems to ensure adherence.
PEMRA has summoned Geo News CEO Mir Ibrahim Rehman to appear on April 27 and asked the channel to submit a written explanation within 14 days, failing which further legal action may be initiated.
Background: Asha Bhosle’s passing and tributes
Asha Bhosle passed away in Mumbai on April 12 at the age of 92, prompting tributes from across India and abroad.
Her death led to widespread remembrance of her decades-long contribution to Indian music, with artists and public figures acknowledging her influence on generations of listeners.
In Pakistan as well, several artists and public figures expressed condolences, highlighting her cross-border popularity and cultural impact.
Actor Ahsan Khan described her death as the “end of an era,” while actor Adnan Siddiqui said her voice had the power to bring “deeply human emotion” even into silence.
Criticism of PEMRA’s decision
PEMRA’s action against Geo News has also faced criticism within Pakistan, with journalists and commentators arguing that cultural content should not be restricted in this manner.
Journalist Gharidah Farooqui said that “art and culture have no boundaries and cannot be confined,” emphasizing the universal nature of artistic legacy.
Senior journalist Rauf Klasra also criticised the decision, warning against what he described as a regression to restrictive media environments of the past. He compared the move to the era of General Zia-ul-Haq, arguing that such restrictions are outdated in the age of global streaming platforms and digital media.
Ongoing proceedings
The matter remains under review, with Geo News expected to respond formally to PEMRA within the stipulated timeframe. The regulator will decide on further action after evaluating the broadcaster’s explanation.
The controversy has once again highlighted the ongoing tension in Pakistan between regulatory controls on foreign content and calls for greater openness in cultural and artistic expression.
