Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has expressed its displeasure over the controversial content of the drama series “Tere Bin,” starring Wahaj Ali and Yumna Zaidi. The show caused a major uproar on social media when a misleading promo hinted at the depiction of marital rape between the characters Murtasim (Wahaj) and Meerab (Yumna).
The authority expressed concerns regarding the content of episode 47 of the drama series, specifically focusing on a scene involving the lead characters, Meerab (Yumna Zaidi) and Murtasim (Wahaj Ali). The scene depicted an intimate moment between the characters, following a previous altercation where Meerab slapped and spat at Murtasim during an argument. In response, Murtasim became enraged and forcefully pushed Meerab onto a bed before closing the door. The sequence strongly implied the possibility of marital rape or assault in the subsequent episode. However, it was later revealed that the act was consensual, although both characters experienced guilt for their actions.
However, in response to significant public backlash after the ep 47 promo, the episode was reportedly modified with subpar voiceovers resembling the quality of WhatsApp audio. Despite these changes, the unsettling visuals remained intact, prompting PEMRA to issue an official warning against the show.
Two days after the episode aired on television, PEMRA released a press statement on its official Twitter account cautioning the makers of “Tere Bin” against broadcasting “inappropriate” content that violates the organization’s regulations. The press release highlighted that Episode 47 of the TV serial, aired on Geo Entertainment channel, featured objectionable content that clearly contravened both PEMRA rules and the 2015 electronic media regulations.
PEMRA further demanded that the creators promptly remove or conceal the mentioned content and ensure that no similar material is broadcasted in any upcoming episodes. It sternly warned of severe consequences should any other regulations be violated in the future.
Social media users reacted to PEMRA’s tweet, expressing their dissatisfaction with the timing of the authority’s response. One user commented, “Isn’t it a little too late? They have already changed the episode. There’s no controversy now. At least watch it first.” Others applauded the social media activists who raised their voices against the negative portrayal of marital rape on television and successfully influenced the narrative.
Directed by Siraj ul Haq, Tere Bin features a talented cast including Bushra Ansari, Sabeena Farooq, Sohail Sameer, and Hira Soomro in significant roles.
