PEMRA reminds media of ban on Valentine’s Day coverage

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has reminded all media outlets not to cover Valentine’s Day.
PEMRA, in a directive issued on Wednesday, reminded the media of the Islamabad High Court (IHC) ruling on Feb. 13 last year in response to a petition submitted by Addul Waheed, a private citizen, who requested a ban on the celebration of Valentine’s Day and media coverage of it.
“Respondents are directed to ensure that nothing about the celebration of Valentine Day’s and its promotion (appears in) the electronic and print media (and) no event shall be held at at official level and in a public place,” the directive said.
Mohammed Tahir, PEMRA general manager of operations, said in the directive that “the above mentioned order of the Islamabad High Court is still in place.”
“Therefore, all broadcast media and distribution services licensees are advised to desist from promoting Valentine’s Day through their respective channels/ networks.”
Valentine’s Day is celebrated every year on Feb. 14 across the world to show affection for romantic loved ones. Before last year the Pakistani media used to plan special coverage for the day.