Source: Dawn.Com

In 2008, guests invited to his show said that Ahmadis should be killed. Two well-known Ahmadis were subsequently killed, although there was no evidence linking their murders to Hussain’s show.

In 2011, a controversial behind-the-scenes video was released via social media showing the presenter using vulgar language and speaking crassly with his companions, during different instances of his show.

He was unable to authenticate an alleged degree in Islamic Studies from a college in Spain, where he claims to have received his education. He also insists on having a diploma from a medical college in Pakistan.

After Television was liberalized during Musharraf’s era (1999-2008), there has been constant debate about media ethics and the continuously blurring line between entertainment and religion.

Tauseef Ahmed Khan, chairman of the mass communication department at the Federal Urdu University, said the baby give-away had taken controversy to a new level.

“Unfortunately, they have adopted the role of reformers, whereas they are entertainers,” he told AFP.

But perhaps the most perplexing part of all is the mixed reactions Hussain’s show has garnered from audiences across the country. While people are clearly horrified on the one hand regarding the welfare of these infants and the direction in which this show is heading, on the other they feel compelled to watch his show every day; leading to the private TV channel that hosts his show to claim to have broken all records ever since it started broadcasting.

This claim is backed by huge billboards plastered with Hussain’s face and media vans that are painted with the colors of the show, declaring its place as number one in the TV rankings.

As Hussain puts it, “People love me, and that is why they watch me.”

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