Full episodes of the reality show Lazawal Ishq can no longer be accessed on YouTube in Pakistan. The programme’s team said in a statement that the show might not be viewable in the country “due to political reasons.”

 

 

The team posted on Instagram that viewers in Pakistan could still watch the show using virtual private networks (VPNs). “Due to political reasons, our show may not be accessible in Pakistan,” it said.

 

 

Hosted by actress Ayesha Omar, the show has been described by its creators as the first Urdu reality series centered on love. It features eight participants from Pakistan who live together in a villa in Istanbul.

 

 

The show’s format resembles international dating programmes such as Love Island, where participants form connections and explore compatibility over the course of the season. Lazawal Ishq is adapted from the Turkish reality show Aşk Adasi.

 

 

Before its removal in Pakistan, 50 episodes were released on YouTube. While clips remain available on the channel, full episodes cannot be accessed locally. The show continues to be available in other countries. YouTube did not respond to AFP requests for comment on why the content was restricted.

 

 

The trailer begins with Omar entering the villa and introducing the contestants, who are expected to form relationships throughout the show’s planned 100 episodes. After its release, Omar faced criticism online, with some users claiming the show “promotes obscene and unethical content.”

 

 

Omar responded on Instagram, writing: “This is not a Pakistani show it is a Turkish production, but naturally, people in Pakistan can watch it.”

 

 

Despite the backlash, the show gained attention on social media, with its first trailer receiving over two million views. Conversations online highlighted differences in perspectives between younger viewers and more conservative audiences in Pakistan regarding dating and representation.

 

 

A petition was filed with the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra), requesting a ban. The petition argued that the show went against “Pakistan’s religious and social values by showing unmarried men and women living together.”

 

 

Pemra confirmed it had received “numerous complaints” but stated it does not have authority over digital platforms. The regulator suggested approaching the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, which oversees online content. The PTA did not respond to requests for comment.

 

 

This is not the first instance of content being restricted on YouTube in Pakistan. Last year, the drama Barzakh was removed following complaints that it promoted LGBTQ relationships.