ISLAMABAD: Geo News issued an apology over footage aired during its 10th Muharram “Safar-e-Ishq” transmission, while PEMRA ordered a 15-day suspension of the channel.
The broadcaster said the content reflected a grave editorial error. It also said the footage did not represent its editorial stance or institutional beliefs.
Geo News said it removed the footage immediately after identifying the mistake. The channel said it acted before any authority or individual formally approached it.
The channel issued show-cause notices to the reporter and members of the editorial committee responsible for the lapse.
It also launched a formal inquiry. Meanwhile, the management said it had started disciplinary action under internal policies.
Geo News said it had strengthened its editorial approval process. The channel added new review steps, tighter supervision and stricter compliance checks.
The broadcaster said the footage showed rituals practised by a limited number of people in Iraq and some Middle Eastern countries.
Read: Geo News: Pemra suspends license for 15 days
It also said the channel had not produced the material and had not aired it deliberately.
Geo News expressed regret over the distress caused. It also reaffirmed its policy of respecting the widely accepted beliefs and religious sensitivities of the Muslim Ummah.
The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority said Geo News would remain suspended on satellite and all other transmission networks for 15 days.
PEMRA also directed its Complaints Council to hear the matter and prepare recommendations for further regulatory action.
