All Pakistani shows may be banned on Indian television

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 25 September 2016

Zindagi channel may ban all Pakistani TV shows in India due to pressure from the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena. The ultimatum follows an increase in anti-Pakistan sentiment after recent terrorist attacks.

Summary

MUMBAI - Zindagi channel - the first to syndicate content from Pakistan and air it in India - might ban all the Pakistani TV shows currently been aired in India following the 48-hour ultimatum given by Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) to all Pakistani film and TV artistes to quit India or face consequences. Referring to Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's speech at the United Nations General Assembly, Subhash Chandra, Chairman at ZEE and Essel Group, tweeted on Saturday: "Unfortunate stance of Mia Sharif at UN. Zee is considering stopping Zindagi programmes from Pakistan. Artistes from there should leave." On Friday, MNS gave the ultimatum and told the media that there was "an anti-Pakistan" wave across India after the September 18 terror attack that left 18 Indian soldiers dead at Uri in Jammu and Kashmir. The party also warned it would not permit the release of any Bollywood films having Pakistani actors, including the upcoming Ae Dil Hai Muskhil and Raees. Launched in 2014, Zindagi channel became popular with the Indian masses after showcasing various Pakistani shows like Zindagi Gulzar Hai, Waqt Ne Kiya Kya Haseen Sitam, Sasural Ki Galli, Noor Bano, Main Bushra and Jab We Wed. - IANS

KEY POINTS:

• Zindagi channel considering a ban on Pakistani shows in India.
• MNS issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Pakistani artists.
• The ban follows a terror attack that killed 18 Indian soldiers.
• The channel gained popularity with various Pakistani dramas.
• Bollywood films featuring Pakistani actors may also be affected.