Asha Bhosle's tribute post faces backlash in Pakistan media over using 'Indian content'

Highlights:

• Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority issues show-cause notice to Geo News
• Channel accused of airing Indian songs and visuals during tribute coverage
• Action linked to Pakistan’s 2018 ban on Indian content
• Geo News defends coverage as standard artistic tribute practice
• Debate reignites over art, culture, and cross-border media restrictions

A Pakistani news channel has been issued a show-cause notice after airing Indian film and music content during its coverage of the reported death of legendary singer Asha Bhosle.

The action was taken by Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA), which said Geo News violated existing rules by broadcasting Indian material, including songs and film visuals, while reporting on the singer’s death. Authorities said the broadcast amounts to “wilful defiance” of a Supreme Court ruling that bans Indian content on Pakistani television.

The regulator cited violations under multiple broadcast and conduct regulations and has summoned the channel’s management to appear on April 27. Geo News has also been directed to submit a written explanation within 14 days or face possible penalties, including fines, suspension, or revocation of its license.

The channel’s managing director, Azhar Abbas, defended the coverage, saying it is standard journalistic practice to revisit an artist’s work when reporting on their life and legacy. He argued that more of Bhosle’s music could have been included, not less.

Abbas also said art should not be restricted by borders, calling it a shared human heritage. He noted Bhosle’s artistic connections across the region, including admiration for Pakistani singer Noor Jehan and collaborations with Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.

The decision has also sparked political debate, with critics arguing that cultural content should not be policed so strictly. Pakistani lawmaker Sherry Rehman questioned the regulator’s stance, warning against overreach in cultural matters.

Asha Bhosle, 92, passed away on April 12 due to multi-organ failure. She was laid to rest with full state honors in Mumbai, with several film industry figures attending her funeral.