On April 13, the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) issued a show-cause notice to 24 News after a clip went viral showing host Fiza Ali being lifted over the shoulder of her husband, Ejaz Khan, during a live morning show, which prompted widespread criticism over broadcast standards.
Ali later described it as a playful and spontaneous moment.
PEMRA stated in its notice that the content was aired without proper editorial checks and breached its code of conduct. The authority directed the channel to submit a written explanation and appear before it, warning that further action may follow if the response is deemed unsatisfactory.
Meanwhile, the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) strongly condemned what it described as “objectionable and immoral content” broadcast in morning shows and television dramas, saying such material erodes societal values and cultural norms.
In a statement, JUI-F spokesperson Aslam Ghauri said that while the media enjoys freedom of expression, it must also uphold social, moral and national responsibilities. He alleged that the growing trend of such content reflected a disregard for cultural sensitivities and family values.
