Geo News issues apology after ‘Safar-e-Ishq’ documentary sparks religious controversy
- Geo News apologises after controversy over visuals aired during Muharram transmission.
- Channel says documentary was not produced by Geo News and did not reflect its editorial stance.
- Broadcaster removes the content and takes action against those responsible.
Geo News has issued an official clarification and apology after a documentary aired during its special Muharram transmission triggered widespread criticism over religiously sensitive visuals.
The controversy emerged after Geo News broadcast a segment titled “Safar-e-Ishq” on the 10th of Muharram. The documentary included visuals showing certain rituals practiced by a limited number of individuals in Iraq and a few other countries. Following the broadcast, many viewers objected to the footage, arguing that it hurt religious sentiments and was inappropriate for a news channel to air.
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In an official statement, Geo News acknowledged the mistake and expressed regret over the incident.
The broadcaster clarified that the documentary merely depicted local customs observed in specific regions and was not intended to represent, endorse or promote any broader religious viewpoint.
Geo News further stated that the documentary was neither produced by the channel nor broadcast with any deliberate intention of offending religious beliefs or sentiments.
The channel reaffirmed its commitment to respecting the widely accepted beliefs and religious sensitivities of the Muslim Ummah, adding that the inclusion of the footage did not reflect its editorial policy or institutional position.
According to the statement, the controversial content was removed immediately after the issue came to light, while disciplinary action was also taken against those found responsible for its broadcast.
Geo News said it had issued its clarification and apology promptly, expressing sincere regret for any distress caused to viewers and reiterating its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of religious respect in its programming.
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