A notification issued by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority’s (PEMRA) Operation Wing today (Wednesday) has barred all the licensed channels and networks from promoting Valentines Day in Pakistan.
The directive has been issued by Islamabad High Court following a petition (NO.541/2017) against the promotion of Valentines Day which was started by an individual named Mr. Abdul Waheed. The notification has been directed to all Pakistani satellite TV channels, FM radio licensees, and distribution service licensees.
The petitioner’s, to their claim, said that Valentines Day should not be celebrated in Pakistan because it is not part of Muslim tradition. The notification read;
…In the meanwhile, respondents are directed to ensure that nothing about the celebrations of Valentine’s Day and its promotion is spread on the Electronic and Print media. No Event shall be held at official level and at any public place. Chairman, Pemra is directed to ensure that all the TV channels shall stop the promotion of Valentine Day, forthwith.
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Accordingly, the IHC has directed all Broadcast Media and Distribution Services Licensees to “desist from promoting” Valentine’s Day hereafter.
Valentines Day celebrations have been banned in all public places and official premises. Electronic and print media will not cover any advertisement or promotions related to Valentines Day from now on.
