Islamabad High Court prohibits Valentine's Day celebrations

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court on Monday, barred the celebration of Valentine's Day in government offices and public spaces across the country. 

According to details, PEMRA has been tasked to monitor all mediums in search of any promotion of Valentine's Day. The court has also issued directives for print and electronic media to "stop all Valentine's Day promotions immediately". 

Justice Shaukat Aziz, who is hearing the case pertaining to Valentine's Day celebrations, told Federal Ministry of Information, Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) and the Islamabad High Commission to submit their replies regarding the immediate execution of the court's orders. 

A petitioner named Abdul Waheed had moved the court to ban celebration of the international event across public spaces. In the petition, Waheed had maintained that Valentine's Day promotions on social media and electronic media were against the teachings and injunctions of Islam. Hence, these should be banned by the courts immediately. 

Valentine's Day has always generated a mixed response in Pakistan. While some people have objected to the western tradition and denounce its celebration in Pakistan, others have taken a liking to the festivities that originate as a result of the day. Celebrated on 14 February around the world, bakeries, restaurants, clothing outlets and other businesses make use of Valentine's Day to boos sales or sell accessories.