Pakistan’s media regulator has issued a show-cause notice to Geo News for airing Indian content while reporting on the death of legendary singer Asha Bhosle, raising questions about compliance with broadcast regulations amid heightened sensitivities.
The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) took notice of the channel’s coverage, stating that it had broadcast Indian songs and visuals from Indian films during its reporting on Bhosle’s death. The move comes at a time when cross-border content remains a sensitive issue in Pakistan’s media landscape.
Asha Bhosle, one of the most iconic voices in South Asian music, passed away on April 12 at the age of 92 in Mumbai after a career spanning decades, prompting widespread tributes across the region.
Regulator questions editorial decisions
According to the notice, Pemra has asked the broadcaster to explain why regulatory action should not be taken for airing content that falls under restrictions on Indian media material. The authority cited existing rules that limit the broadcast of foreign content, particularly from India, without proper clearance.
Officials indicated that the content aired during the segment went beyond standard news reporting and included entertainment material, which may have violated the regulatory framework governing electronic media.
The notice requires Geo News to respond within a specified timeframe, outlining its position and justification for the broadcast.
