Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has expressed its displeasure with the content of the drama series “Tere Bin,” starring Wahaj Ali and Yumna Zaidi. The show sparked controversy on social media when a misleading promo suggested the portrayal of marital rape between the characters Murtasim (played by Wahaj) and Meerab (played by Yumna).
In response to the intense backlash, it is claimed that the episode was edited with low-quality voiceovers reminiscent of those found in WhatsApp voice messages. However, despite these changes, the disturbing visuals remained in the episode. As a result, PEMRA has issued an official warning regarding the show.
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The regulatory authority issued a press release via its official Twitter account, cautioning the creators of Tere Bin against airing any further “inappropriate” content that violates PEMRA’s regulations. The press release explicitly mentioned that Episode 47 of the TV serial on Geo Entertainment channel displayed objectionable content, which directly contradicts both PEMRA’s rules and the electronic media regulations established in 2015.
— Report PEMRA (@reportpemra) May 26, 2023
It further asked the makers to remove/hide the said content immediately and make sure that no similar content gets aired in any of their future episodes. “Strict action will be taken against the makers in case any other regulation is comprised next,” it concluded.
Social media users responded to PEMRA’s tweet and called it “a little too late.” A user wrote, “Did you just wake up now? They changed the episode. There’s nothing controversial now. First watch it, at least.” Others congratulated the social media warriors who raised their voices against marital rape and its negative depiction on television and succeeded in changing the narrative.
Tere Bin, directed by Siraj ul Haq, also stars Bushra Ansari, Sabeena Farooq, Sohail Sameer, and Hira Soomro in pivotal roles.
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Since it began airing in December on Geo TV, the drama has been known for its gripping narrative and compelling characters. Its popularity is not limited to Pakistan — people all over the world have been swooning over the chemistry between Meerab, played by Yumna Zaidi, and Murtasim, played by Wahaj Ali. However, the last episode changed almost everyone’s opinion.