PEMRA Declines to Ban Ayesha Omar’s Controversial Dating Reality Show Amid Public Backlash

The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has announced it will not ban actress Ayesha Omar’s upcoming dating reality show, Lazawal Ishq, despite widespread public outrage and calls for an immediate prohibition.

The teaser for Pakistan’s first Urdu-language dating show, released on September 12, sparked significant backlash on social media. Many users condemned the show as being “against Islamic and social values,” leading to trending hashtags such as #BoycottLazawalIshq and #BoycottAyeshaOmar. Numerous voices urged PEMRA and the Ministry of Information to impose a ban without delay.

Responding to the controversy, PEMRA confirmed receiving “a large number of complaints” but clarified that Lazawal Ishq has not been licensed for broadcast on any Pakistani television channel.

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— Report PEMRA (@reportpemra) September 16, 2025

“The program’s promotional material is circulating only on social media platforms. PEMRA issues licenses only for TV channels, not digital content,” the authority stated.

This clarification means that, despite strong opposition, PEMRA currently has no jurisdiction over the show unless it airs on mainstream TV.

Critics continue to express concern, arguing that such programs undermine family values and promote relationships outside marriage. Some activists have indicated plans to approach the High Court in an attempt to halt the show.

Inspired by international formats such as Splitsvilla and Love Island, Lazawal Ishq features four young couples living together in a luxury mansion for 100 days. The participants will be under constant 24/7 surveillance, engaging in challenges, going on dates, and competing for a prize, all overseen by Ayesha Omar.

Social media reactions have been sharply critical, questioning how such a program could be allowed in an Islamic republic. One user asked, “Who are these people, and where do they come from?” while another labeled the show “an open attempt to promote vulgarity and weaken the sanctity of marriage.”

Neither Ayesha Omar nor the production team has issued a response to the backlash. In the teaser, Omar described the show as a “unique and bold experiment” unlike anything Pakistani audiences have seen before.

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