The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has begun hearing a petition seeking a ban on Pakistan’s first-ever dating show Lazawal Ishq, on YouTube, which critics claim promotes “obscenity” and “moral decay.”
The petition, filed by the Amaan Taraqqi Party, argues that the programme undermines social and cultural values. Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir has issued notices to the federal government, the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA), the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), and other relevant institutions.
Lazawal Ishq is a reality show inspired by Love Island, which features a group of men and women living together in a villa on an island, forming romantic relationships and taking part in various risqué challenges on camera.
The show is hosted by actor Ayesha Omar and has stirred widespread controversy since its teaser release, sparking debate over the limits of free expression and moral standards in entertainment.
Petitioner Faiq has requested the court to direct PEMRA and PTA to monitor online platforms for similar content and to seek clarification on the role of the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) in regulating digital media.
The show’s teaser has triggered strong reactions on social media — with some praising it as a bold step for Pakistan’s entertainment industry, while others have denounced it as unethical and culturally inappropriate.
In response to public criticism, host Ayesha Omar clarified that La Zawal Ishq should not be classified as a dating show.
The court will continue hearing the case on November 20.