Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority suspended Geo News’ broadcasting licence for 15 days with immediate effect. The action followed a special Muharram transmission aired on June 26, 2026. Authorities cited serious concerns regarding religious visualisation during the programme titled Safar-e-Ishq.
Editorial Concerns Prompt Immediate Regulatory Action
PEMRA stated the broadcast could hurt viewers’ religious sentiments and disturb public harmony. Furthermore, the authority believed the content risked affecting peace and law and order. Officials said broadcasters must exercise greater editorial caution during sensitive religious programming. Therefore, the regulator found Geo News responsible for failing to meet required broadcasting standards.
The authority said the transmission violated several provisions of the PEMRA Ordinance, 2002. Additionally, officials cited breaches of the PEMRA Rules, Regulations, and the Electronic Media Code of Conduct. PEMRA also said the programme contradicted its June 15 directive regarding Muharram observance.
Further Inquiry Ordered Into Editorial Lapses
Using powers under Section 30 of the PEMRA Ordinance, the authority suspended the channel’s licence. Consequently, Geo News’ transmission will remain unavailable across satellite and distribution platforms. PEMRA instructed all operators to implement the suspension without delay.
Meanwhile, the regulator referred the matter to the Council of Complaints for further examination. The council will conduct hearings and recommend additional regulatory action if necessary. Moreover, PEMRA directed Geo News to launch an internal inquiry into the editorial lapse.
The channel must submit inquiry findings and corrective measures before the Council of Complaints. Finally, PEMRA instructed its regional offices to enforce the decision according to applicable laws. The authority added that further legal proceedings remain possible under Pakistan’s existing regulatory framework.
