Azma warns theatre actors against violating SOPs

LAHORE: Punjab Information and Culture Minister Azma Bokhari conducted surprise late-night raids on various theatres in the provincial capital here on Thursday.

The minister thoroughly examined the cafeterias, dressing rooms, and halls to assess the overall environment and standards of the theatres during her inspection visit. The theatres visited included Mehfil Theatre, Prince Theatre and Tamaseel Theatre. Expressing strong dissatisfaction over poor cleanliness and administrative mismanagement, the minister also voiced concern about inappropriate songs and the indecent attire of female performers in stage dramas. As part of the crackdown, show-cause notices were issued to renowned actor Sajan Abbas and actresses Neeli, Saima Khan, Nayab Khan, and Sonu Butt. The minister emphasised that vulgarity and obscenity will not be tolerated in Punjab’s theatres. She made it clear that any performer violating the set SOPs in the future would face a lifetime ban. She also expressed dissatisfaction with the working methods of Punjab Arts Council officials, stressing that all the stakeholders must act responsibly to improve the theatre environment.