Has ‘Lazawal Ishq’ become inaccessible for Pakistani viewers?

WEB DESK: Unable to view reality show ‘Lazawal Ishq’ in Pakistan? Well, the team behind the YouTube dating programme has warned that the show may not be accessible to viewers, citing unspecified political reasons for the disruption.

In a statement shared with audiences on Instagram, the creators said that while the programme continues to stream normally in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, the United States, Germany, France, the United Kingdom and other countries around the world, access within Pakistan could be restricted.

The team advised viewers residing in Pakistan, as well as those in any location facing similar issues, to consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to continue watching the show without interruption. They reassured international audiences that no restrictions apply outside Pakistan and the programme remains fully available globally.

The statement did not specify the nature of the political concerns, nor did it clarify whether the disruption was temporary or part of a broader policy. However, the creators said they were committed to keeping viewers informed and ensuring uninterrupted access wherever possible.

Lazawal Ishq has built a steady following, and the announcement prompted concern among fans who fear their access may be affected in the coming days.

Earlier in November, host Ayesha Omar had clarified that Lazawal Ishq, is a Turkish-produced Urdu reality show, is made entirely by Turkish creators and has no link to Pakistani channels or production houses. Aimed at Urdu-speaking audiences globally, the show focuses on communication, relationships and love between consenting adults. She stressed that privacy is maintained with separate living and dressing spaces for men and women, and that episodes air only on YouTube from Monday to Friday. Despite her explanation, social media users heavily criticised the show as culturally inappropriate and accused Omar of defending it for attention. She denied rumours of a ban, insisting all arrangements are professional.

Marred by controversy

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) in October had heard a petition seeking a ban on La Zawal Ishq, which has stirred widespread controversy for allegedly promoting “obscenity” and moral decay. The petition, filed by the Amaan Taraqqi Party, claims the show violates social and cultural norms and urges authorities to restrict its availability in Pakistan. Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir issued notices to the federal government, PEMRA, PTA and other relevant departments to submit their responses, with the next hearing scheduled for November 20.

Hosted by actor Ayesha Omar, the show has sharply divided public opinion. Supporters view it as a bold experiment in digital entertainment and a step toward creative freedom, while critics argue it crosses moral boundaries and sets an unhealthy precedent for online content. The debate has revived larger questions about freedom of expression and how far regulators should go in policing digital platforms.

Earlier, PEMRA clarified that it will not ban La Zawal Ishq, stating that the show is not licensed for television broadcast and therefore lies outside its regulatory domain. Inspired by global formats like Love Island, the show features couples living together and competing for prizes, a concept that many opponents believe undermines family values.