The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) has prohibited the telecast of the drama serial ‘Hadsa’.

The objectionable content became the main reason for action prohibition of the drama, according to an official notification shared by the authority on X (formerly known as Twitter).

Barrister Khadija Siddiqi lodged a complaint through Barrister Muhammad Ahmed Pansota, against the serial for action under Section 27 of Pemra Ordinance 2002 and other provisions of law, it added.

It said Pemra also received numerous complaints from viewers with regard to the plot/theme of the drama serial on its Twitter handle and viewers are criticizing the plot/theme of the drama on a real incident that took place at Lahore-Sialkot Motorway.

https://twitter.com/reportpemra/status/1696903539102990786?s=20

"Furthermore, the public is of the opinion that portrayal of such heinous act will not only trigger the trauma of that unfortunate victim but would also tarnish country’s image globally and viewers abroad would perceive Pakistan as an unsafe place for women.”

The authority said the drama serial was monitored and its storyline/plot was “highly inappropriate, disturbing and not depicting a true picture of Pakistani society. This drama serial has created an uproar on social media as well as among the society and Pemra being the regulator is being criticized for not taking action.”

“Broadcast/re-broadcast of drama serial ‘Hadsa’ is hereby prohibited immediately under Section 27 of Pemra Ordinance 2002 as amended by Pemra (Amendment) Act 2007. The matter is further being referred to the Council of Complaints for appropriate recommendations to the Authority for the final decision.”