Designer Maria B's vocal criticism of the Indian web series 'Barzakh', co-produced and directed by Pakistanis, has evolved into legal action, with the show being removed from YouTube Pakistan soon.
Maria B's lawsuit, which she claims to file with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), accuses the show of spreading controversial themes. Her decision has sparked a blaze of reaction over content control and cultural sensitivities.
Rapper Ali Gul Pir challenged Maria B's legal action against the Indian series, arguing that such anger should extend to other international shows like Game of Thrones also if the same logic is applied. As Maria B's protest continues, the discussion around content regulation heats up.
In an argumentative reply to Maria B's legal activities, rapper Ali Gul Pir took to social media to dispute the legality of targeting 'Barzakh'.
Gul Pir's posts question whether similar legal action will be taken against other globally popular shows with questionable themes, such as 'Game of Thrones'.
"Isn't this an Indian-owned and televised show? Will you sue other overseas productions that are similarly offensive?" Gul Pir question, noting that Game of Thrones includes intimate scenes too.
Gul Pir argues that such bans often backfire by increasing interest and visibility, rather than effectively addressing the content in question. He also highlighted a broader issue, suggesting that public outrage over media content distracts from more pressing national concerns.
“We face far more significant problems, like education and inflation. Why are we so focused on banning a drama when there are critical issues like the state of our government hospitals and education system that need our attention?” he said.
Following Zindagi's announcement to remove 'Barzakh' from YouTube Pakistan, Asim Abbasi, the show's director, changed his opinion. Initially, Abbasi defended the series against accusations of pushing 'distasteful' themes, advising viewers who found queer or non-heteronormative narratives upsetting to avoid his work. Regardless of the chaos, his response emphasized his dedication to the show's artistic goal.
However, as the situation got worse, Abbasi's viewpoint shifted. He expressed support for Barzakh's removal, seeing it as a vital action to protect his team amid increasing public and judicial scrutiny.
