KARACHI: Acclaimed actress Saba Qamar has reaffirmed her determination to fight back against defamatory reporting, as her legal dispute with a journalist continues to make waves across Pakistan’s entertainment industry.
The Kamli star, known for her fearless performances and outspoken personality, is now channeling that same resolve into a campaign for accountability within the media.
Saba, 41, publicly criticized the journalist who made controversial remarks about her and other actresses during a podcast, calling it part of a “longstanding culture of character assassination” disguised as entertainment.
“These derogatory and invasive comments are not journalism,” Saba asserted. “They are violations of personal dignity made purely for attention and clicks.”
She emphasized that the issue extends beyond her own case, urging the entertainment community to unite against what she described as a “pattern of irresponsible commentary.” “It’s time for artists to take a stand,” she said. “We cannot let these attacks on our personal lives go unchecked.”
Legal action and media accountability
The controversy erupted after a journalist claimed in a podcast that Saba Qamar had lived in a house in Lahore’s Walton area allegedly provided by a man she was romantically involved with.
Calling the claims “baseless and defamatory,” Saba filed a Rs100 million defamation lawsuit, demanding the journalist issue a public apology and remove the video. She warned that legal proceedings would move forward if her demands were not met within seven days.
Her action has sparked widespread debate about media ethics and the blurred line between reporting and rumor-mongering in Pakistan’s entertainment landscape.
Industry support pours in
Saba’s bold move has earned her strong backing from fellow actors and colleagues who see her as setting a much-needed precedent.
Veteran actor Faisal Qureshi lightheartedly commented, “Bhai kyon kiya ye, waisy hi aaj kal @sabaqamarzaman aka Sehar buhat practice mein hai.”
Ayesha Omar praised Saba’s resolve, writing, “So proud of you for setting a precedence. More power to you, my love.”
Rising star Durrefishan Saleem lauded Saba’s resilience: “Consistently showing, both on and off screen, what it means to stand tall at the right moment — my fav genre.”
Actor Rasikh Ismail Khan also expressed admiration, saying, “As a father of two daughters, having a role model like you — one with courage, clarity, and strength — is a God gift.”
A push for reform in entertainment journalism
Saba’s case has reignited calls for ethical reform in entertainment media, with many urging regulators and digital platforms to establish clearer boundaries to protect public figures from harassment disguised as commentary.
For Saba Qamar, the fight isn’t only personal — it’s about drawing a line between free speech and defamation, and reminding the industry that respect must coexist with reporting.
