Pemra issues warning to Tere Bin creators over ‘inappropriate’ content

• Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) reacts to the popular television drama series Tere Bin after receiving audience backlash.
• Pemra expresses concerns regarding episode 47, which featured an intimate moment between leading characters Meerab and Murtasim.
• Pemra’s notice emphasizes the violation of their rules and directs the immediate removal of objectionable material while upholding societal values.

Tere Bin, a television drama series, has been at the center of controversy over the past two weeks due to a controversial twist in the storyline. Following criticism from the audience, the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) has also weighed in on the matter. The regulatory body recently issued a stern warning to the creators of the show.

Pemra expressed concerns specifically about episode 47 of the drama, where the leading characters, Meerab (played by Yumna Zaidi) and Murtasim (played by Wahaj Ali), share an intimate moment. The previous episode depicted a heated argument between the characters, with Meerab slapping and spitting at Murtasim’s face.

In response, Murtasim angrily pushed Meerab onto a bed and closed the door, heavily implying the possibility of marital rape or assault in the subsequent episode. However, it was later revealed that the act was consensual, although both characters felt guilty about their actions.

According to Pemra’s notice, this aspect of the drama’s content goes against their own rules and the Electronic Media Regulatory Rules of 2015, which prohibit the airing of television dramas containing “indecent content.” Pemra’s primary focus is to uphold cultural, religious, and ethical sensitivities in television content.

While acknowledging artistic freedom and creative expression, the authority emphasizes the importance of responsible storytelling that aligns with societal values.

In 2019, the media regulatory body stated, “Such content is not only distressing for viewers but is also against the commonly accepted standards of decency.”

The recent notice urges Geo Entertainment and the creators of Tere Bin to promptly remove the objectionable material and warns them to avoid such occurrences in the future. Failure to comply may result in further action being taken by the regulatory body.

Pemra has previously taken action against other dramas, including Jalan, Pyar Ke Sadkay, and Ishqiya, in response to similar incidents.

In light of Pemra’s warning, the creators of Tere Bin are now expected to address the concerns raised and take appropriate measures to ensure compliance with the regulations while maintaining the quality and integrity of their content.