Pemra issues notice to 24 News over clip from Fiza Ali’s Ramazan transmission

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) has issued a show-cause notice to 24 News after a clip from host Fiza Ali’s Ramazan transmission drew criticism on social media and was described by the regulator as objectionable.

According to the notice, the clip was taken from the programme Subh Ka Samaa, which aired on March 12. Pemra said the content was being widely circulated online and had prompted concern from viewers.

The regulator said the segment featured a discussion in which Ali and religious scholar Mufti Qavi spoke about husbands and wives, and that the material was considered inappropriate for a Ramazan transmission. Pemra stated that the content violated provisions of the Electronic Media (Programmes and Advertisements) Code of Conduct, 2015, as well as terms of the channel’s licence.

In the notice, the authority said the programme had gone against “commonly accepted standards of decency” and was inconsistent with the sanctity of Ramazan. The content had caused “public outrage and complaints from the general public”.

Pemra directed the channel to explain why action should not be taken against it under the applicable law. The regulator also asked 24 News to submit a written reply within the stipulated time and appear before the authority through an authorised representative.

Clip drew criticism online

The issue gained attention after a video clip from the show circulated on social media platforms, where users criticised the conversation and questioned its suitability for a religious transmission during the holy month.

The notice said the material was aired despite repeated directives issued by Pemra to television channels to ensure that Ramazan programming remains within the bounds of decency, religious sensitivity and the code of conduct.

Pemra maintained that broadcasters are required to avoid content that may offend viewers or undermine the spirit of the month. Licensees are expected to exercise editorial control and ensure compliance with the law and regulatory framework.

Regulatory action sought

Under the show-cause notice, 24 News has been asked to clarify its position over the broadcast and explain why legal proceedings should not be initiated. The authority said failure to respond could result in ex-parte proceedings under the relevant rules.

The development comes amid heightened scrutiny of television content aired during Ramazan, particularly programmes that combine religious themes with entertainment and celebrity-led discussions.

Pemra’s notice focuses specifically on the March 12 broadcast and the subsequent circulation of the clip online. The regulator has not only cited the programme’s content as objectionable but also linked the matter to broader concerns about compliance with programming standards during Ramazan transmissions.

The case will now proceed in line with the response submitted by the channel and any hearing conducted by the regulator under the law.