The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) has upheld its decision to suspend Geo News' broadcasting license for 15 days and impose a Rs10 million fine over the broadcaster's 10th Muharram documentary.

The authority cited the licensee's admission of negligence, public apologies, and compliance measures as mitigating factors but emphasized the legal consequences of the violation.Pemra directed Geo News to submit an affidavit confirming adherence to regulations and warned of enhanced penalties for future violations.

The suspension followed an investigation into religiously sensitive content aired during the Muharram transmission, which was referred to the Council of Complaints.

Geo News clarified the content depicted local customs in Iraq and the Middle East, not broader religious viewpoints, and stated immediate removal of the footage.The decision highlights Pemra's strict enforcement of content guidelines and its commitment to upholding religious sensitivities in media.

The case also underscores the regulatory framework governing electronic media in Pakistan, including the Electronic Media (Programmes and Advertisements) Code of Conduct.Geo News reaffirmed its commitment to respecting Muslim Ummah's beliefs, emphasizing that the incident did not reflect its editorial stance.