ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Monday ordered for authorities to prohibit ‘with immediate effect’ the celebration of Valentine’s Day in both public spaces and government offices across the country.
Justice Shaukat Aziz, who heard the relevant case on Monday, ordered the Information Ministry, the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) and the Islamabad High Commission to submit their replies regarding the immediate execution of the court’s orders.
The court was hearing the relevant petition filed by citizen, Abdul Waheed, who noted that mainstream and social media outlets were promoting celebrations of the day, an act he stated was “against Islamic teachings and should be banned immediately”.
His petition also urged the court to impose a ban on Valentine’s Day celebrations in public spaces.
The court also warned print and electronic media to “stop all Valentine’s Day promotions immediately”, while PEMRA has been ordered to monitor all mediums and send out notifications banning any related promotions.
The celebration of Valentine’s Day has annually resulted in a heated debate among various sections of Pakistani society, with some people supporting and celebrating it while others protest its observance.
In addition, various other outlets, including restaurants and delivery service providers also regularly come up with promotions geared towards Valentine’s Day celebrations.
In comparison, opponents of the celebrations launch anti-Valentine’s campaigns, with institutions and universities across the country observing campaigns such as ‘Haya Day‘ and ‘Say no to Valentine’s Day’.
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