A petition has been filed in the Islamabad High Court (IHC) seeking a ban on the controversial reality show Lazawal Ishq, which has drawn criticism for allegedly promoting content that contradicts Pakistan’s religious and cultural values.
The petition was submitted by Muhammad Faiq, Chairman of the Aman Taraqqi Party, who claimed that the show contains “inappropriate material” and encourages behavior that goes against the country’s social and moral fabric.
According to Faiq, the program’s format and portrayal of relationships could negatively influence young audiences and undermine cultural ethics. The petition urges the court to direct both the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) and the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to closely monitor the show and take appropriate action if violations are found.
The petitioner has also requested that the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII) be consulted to determine the limits of permissible content in line with Islamic principles and local norms.
Lazawal Ishq features men and women living together in a villa, participating in challenges, games, and relationship-building tasks — all while being filmed continuously. The show’s format is said to be inspired by the Turkish reality series Ask Adasi (Love Island), which has a similar premise.
Since the release of its teaser, Lazawal Ishq has become a trending topic across social media platforms. The program’s bold approach has divided public opinion, with some calling it a “modern experiment” in Pakistani entertainment, while others have condemned it as “immoral” and contrary to societal norms.
A large number of critics online have urged PEMRA to intervene, arguing that such content could set a dangerous precedent for future productions. However, supporters of the show view it as a creative risk that reflects a changing entertainment landscape in Pakistan.
Amid the controversy, Ayesha Omar, who serves as the show’s host, clarified in a recent interview that Lazawal Ishq is not a dating show. She emphasized that it is based on emotional intelligence, teamwork, and social compatibility rather than romantic involvement.
As the legal proceedings continue, the debate around Lazawal Ishq highlights the growing tension between creative freedom and cultural boundaries within Pakistan’s entertainment industry. The Islamabad High Court is expected to review the petition and determine the extent to which regulatory bodies can intervene in digital streaming and television content.
