After days of sustained outrage, the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has imposed an immediate ban on the broadcast of the TV drama serial Hadsa. The decision comes amidst a storm of criticism and public outcry over the drama’s alleged portrayal of the 2020 Motorway rape case.
Barrister Khadija Siddiqi, Advocate High Court, lodged a complaint through Barrister Muhammad Ahmed Pansota, Advocate Supreme Court of Pakistan, calling for action under Section 27 of the PEMRA Ordinance 2002.
— Report PEMRA (@reportpemra) August 30, 2023
It said PEMRA had also received numerous complaints from viewers with regard to the plot/theme of the drama serial on its Twitter Handle. Viewers are criticizing the plot/theme of the drama serial ’Hadsa based on a real incident that took place at Lahore-Sialkot Motorway.”
The drama’s plot is seemingly based on the sensitive incident – a fact that has been denied by actor Hadiqa Kiani.
The notification stated,
Public is of the opinion that portrayal of such heinous act will not only trigger the trauma of that unfortunate victim but would also tarnish country’s image globally and viewers abroad would perceive Pakistan as unsafe place for women.
The matter is further being referred to the Council of Complaints for appropriate recommendations to the Authority for final decision.
What have the authorities done to prevent such incidents of rape? But a drama will tarnish country’s image as if we have a very positive image in the world otherwise. Baning everything is the easiest thing to do.They have sealed theatres in Lahore also. Are we ruled by Taliban in Pakistan?
Yes close your eyes and ban the drama. All good and everything is fine in Pakistan. This drama was just a Bairou I Saazish to tarnish our pure culture.