Khalil Ur Rehman had signed a deal for four dramas and one film script with Geo Entertainment for the upcoming year.
However, his recent appearance on a talk show where he ended up abusing Marvi Sirmed and using inappropriate, profane language for both her and the Aurat March resulted in outrage on social media with activists, celebrities and many in general calling him out for misogyny.
The writer would later say he does not regret any of his actions or word.
With all that happened, Geo Entertainment issued a public statement last night to announce the suspension of their “non-exclusive” contract with Qamar.
“GEO Entertainment and 7th Sky Entertainment have suspended four drama serial and one film script contract of Khalil Ur Rehman Qamar until he apologises for using indecent language on a TV show. This was a non-exclusive agreement as he has with several other TV channels.”
According to the statement, “Geo believes in exchange of ideas and promoting the culture of ‘Live and Let Live’ (Geo aur Jeenay do), we believe that everyone has the right to express their opinions and the culture of healthy debate should be encouraged. But such debate should be done with the norms of decency and respecting each other. Khalil ur Rehman Qamar sab not only used abusive language against a women but also refused to accept his mistake and apologise for it.”
“Therefore, Geo Entertainment management has decided to suspend contract with him. GEO has always aimed to create an enabling environment for thought and debate even if that includes criticism on the organization itself. Geo aur Jeenay do.”
Khalil Ur Rehman has since then responded to Geo’s statement, refusing to apologise.
Note down people And @HarPalGeoTv pic.twitter.com/oiHYJ0ci6h
— Khalil Ur Rehman Qamar (@KrqOfficial) March 5, 2020
“I’ll not work with this institution for my life to come,” said Qamar.
