The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has warned Geo News of possible suspension or cancellation of its licence after the channel aired Indian songs and film clips, allegedly violating a court-backed ban.
According to the notice, Geo broadcast content linked to legendary singer Asha Bhosle. The regulator termed it a “willful defiance” of the Supreme Court of Pakistan ruling that restricts Indian content on local television since 2018.
Geo News management defended the move. Managing Director Azhar Abbas on ‘X’ said it is standard practice to revisit an artist’s work after their death. He argued that Bhosle’s stature justified even wider coverage of her songs.
Asha Bhosle passed away in Mumbai at the age of 92. She recorded thousands of songs and also worked with Pakistani artists, including Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.
PEMRA has issued a show-cause notice and directed the channel’s chief executive to respond within 14 days. A hearing is scheduled for April 27.
The regulator warned that penalties may include fines, suspension, or cancellation of the licence.
