The show-cause notice is being sent by the media regulatory authority in Pakistan against a popular TV news channel due to broadcasting “Indian content” while covering the demise of iconic playback singer Asha Bhosle. Since 2018, an outright ban on all Indian media has been imposed in Pakistan, and now the recent action has once again sparked discussions about the relationship between art and policy.
The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) on Monday targeted GeoNews, demanding an explanation for why the channel aired snippets of Indian songs and film visuals alongside the news of Bhosle’s passing. The veteran singer died on Sunday at the age of 92 following multi-organ failure. Despite GeoNews’ perceived proximity to the current government and military establishment, the regulator deemed the broadcast a "wilful defiance" of a Supreme Court ruling that prohibits such content.
Azhar Abbas, the Managing Director of GeoNews, defended the channel’s editorial decision in a statement on X. He argued that it is standard practice to celebrate the life’s work of an icon when they pass away, suggesting that for an artist of Bhosle’s stature, even more of her "timeless and memorable" catalogue should have been shared. Abbas argued that art and knowledge are part of the collective heritage of humanity that should not be confined by political barriers. Abbas further noted that Bhosle herself was culturally connected to Pakistan, since she admired the legendary Noor Jahan and had collaborated with the famous Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.
However, the regulator did not give much credence to these arguments. According to the notice, the broadcast violated several clauses of the PEMRA Rules and the Electronic Media Code of Conduct. The Chief Executive of the network has now been summoned to appear on April 27. The channel has been given a fortnight to provide a written explanation or face potential consequences, which could include heavy fines or the suspension of its broadcasting licence.
The move has not been without its critics within Pakistan. Sherry Rehman, a senator for the PPP, immediately criticised the regulator, telling PEMRA that it should not lose all perspective and try to regulate any cultural shifts that occur. It is a harsh reminder to some people that artists end up becoming the casualties in the political dispute between the two countries.
Also read: Asha Bhosle laid to rest with full state honours
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