IHC accepts petition against Lazawal Ishq over 'immoral content' claims

The Islamabad High Court has accepted the petition filed against the reality TV show Lazawal Ishq, alleging that the program promotes obscene and immoral content.

The petitioner, Aman Taraqqi Party Chairperson Muhammad Faiq Shah, has called for action against the YouTube-based reality show for allegedly violating religious and moral values in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

In response, 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 authorities. 

The court will resume hearings on November 20.

The petitioner also sought guidance from the court regarding the role of the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII). “We support art and freedom of expression, but not moral decline and immodesty in the name of freedom,” said the petitioner.

Hosted by actress Ayesha Omar, the dating show has divided audiences, sparking a debate over freedom of expression versus moral responsibility. The famed actress, however, defended the project, describing it as a groundbreaking concept for desi families, featuring Pakistani contestants and a mix of drama, romance, and competition.

Read: Veteran actress Marina Khan defends dating show Lazawal Ishq

The petition, filed through Shah’s counsel, Advocate Mian Asif Mahmood, has named the Federation of Pakistan, PTA, PEMRA, the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII), and the newly formed National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) as respondents.

Calling the petition the beginning of a “moral revolution,” the Aman Taraqqi Party has urged immediate measures to protect Pakistan’s religious and cultural identity.