ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has decided against banning actress Ayesha Omar’s upcoming dating reality show Lazawal Ishq, despite public outrage and calls for its immediate ban.
The teaser of the country’s first Urdu dating show, released on September 12, triggered widespread backlash, with users calling it “against Islamic and social values.”
Hashtags like #BoycottLazawalIshq and #BoycottAyeshaOmar trended across platforms, while many demanded that PEMRA and the Ministry of Information impose an immediate ban.
In its statement, PEMRA confirmed receiving “a large number of complaints” about the show. However, the authority clarified that Lazawal Ishq has not been licensed for broadcast on any Pakistani TV channel.
“The program’s promotional material is circulating only on social media platforms. PEMRA issues licenses only for TV channels, not digital content,” the regulator explained.
The clarification means that the show, despite fierce opposition, does not fall under PEMRA’s jurisdiction unless it is aired on mainstream television.
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Meanwhile, critics continue to voice anger, warning that such programs undermine family values and promote relationships outside marriage. Some activists have announced plans to approach the High Court to stop the show.
The show, inspired by international formats like Splitsvilla and Love Island, features four young couples living together in a luxury mansion for 100 days.
They will be placed under 24/7 surveillance, take part in challenges, go on dates, and compete for a prize, all under Omar’s supervision.
Social media users expressed outrage, questioning how a program of this nature could be approved in an Islamic republic.
“Who are these people, and where do they come from?” one asked. Another commented, “This is an open attempt to promote vulgarity and weaken the sanctity of marriage.”
Neither the production team nor Ayesha Omar has responded to the backlash. In the teaser, however, the actress described the program as a “unique and bold experiment” that Pakistani audiences have never seen before.