ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has issued its final decision in the case concerning the controversial documentary case aired during Geo News’ programme “Safar-e-Ishq” on the 10th of Muharram.
The Authority reviewed the matter in detail during its 191st meeting held on July 11, taking into account the recommendations of the Lahore Council of Complaints, the case record, the license holder’s written and oral submissions, the PEMRA Ordinance 2002, relevant rules, and the applicable provisions of the Electronic Media (Programmes and Advertisements) Code of Conduct, 2015.
The Council of Complaints had deliberated on the matter during its 127th, 128th and 129th meetings held on June 30, July 2 and July 10, 2026, respectively.
After hearing the license holder’s representatives, reviewing the record, and considering the opinion of the Council of Islamic Ideology, the Council submitted its recommendations to the Authority.
The decision states that Geo News and its representatives were provided with a fair opportunity to present their explanation.
PEMRA held that the violation was of a serious nature, contrary to the requirements of responsible broadcasting and the obligations of the license holder under PEMRA laws.
The Authority acknowledged Geo News’ admission of negligence, expression of remorse, and unconditional apology across all media platforms as mitigating factors. However, it clarified that these factors do not negate the violation or its legal consequences.
According to the decision, the Authority upheld its order issued on June 27, 2026, suspending Geo News’ licence for 15 days.The suspension will remain in effect until midnight today.
The decision further states that Geo News’ transmission may only resume after completion of the suspension period and payment of a fine of Rs100 million.
PEMRA directed the Geo News management to complete disciplinary proceedings against individuals found responsible for failing to discharge their duties and dismiss them in accordance with the rules.
The Authority further ruled that individuals removed from service as a result of these proceedings will not be permitted to work, directly or indirectly, in any capacity with any PEMRA-licensed, registered or authorised service.
PEMRA also warned Geo News that any similar negligence in the future may result in cancellation of its licence.
The Authority directed Geo News and all other licensees to establish independent and competent in-house monitoring committees or editorial boards, provide their details to PEMRA, and ensure prior editorial review of all broadcast content.
PEMRA further announced that a separate directive would be issued to all licensees for strict compliance with the Supreme Court of Pakistan’s judgment in Suo Motu Case No. 28 of 2018 (PLD 2019 SC 1).
Also Read: Geo news admits editorial mistake, issues public apology over ‘Safar-e-Ishq transmission
