Pemra, CII, NCCIA put on notice as Lazawal Ishq challenged in IHC
ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) Friday issued notices to the federal government, Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA), Council of Islamic Ideology (CII), and the National Cyber Crimes Investigation Agency (NCCIA) over a petition challenging Lazawal Ishq reality show.
Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir heard the petition filed by Amun Taraqqi Party (ATP) Chairman Faik Shah, who argued that the content of the show violates Pakistan’s social and moral values.
According to the petitioner, Lazawal Ishq promotes obscenity and moral degradation through its depiction of intimate interactions and liberal relationship themes that are contrary to the country’s cultural norms. The petition urged the court to direct the PTA and Pemra to strictly monitor content broadcast on digital platforms.
It also requested the court to seek guidance from the Council of Islamic Ideology regarding the show’s compliance with Islamic and moral standards. The court, after hearing initial arguments, issued notices to the respondents and sought their replies on the matter.
The Lazawal Ishq show, hosted by Ayesha Omar and streamed online, has recently sparked nationwide controversy for allegedly Western-style dating culture in Pakistan. Addressing criticism a few days ago, Ayesha took to Instagram to share her mother’s reaction, saying, “Did my mum like the first episode? She added that her mother found the show “interesting and healthy,” which meant the world to her. Amid the buzz, Ayesha shared a stunning sun-drenched photoshoot, writing: “Starting the week, keeping the sun on me and those doors closed.
Protecting my energy from all the bad auras.” Fans showered her with love, calling her a “true style icon” and praising her confidence. Since its debut, Lazawal Ishq has become one of Pakistan’s most talked-about digital shows, featuring eight contestants exploring communication, bonding, and self-discovery. Staff Report
