“The matter is not just about me.”
The reality singing competition Pakistan Idol is facing a major legal challenge at the Intellectual Property Tribunal in Karachi.
Photographer Muhammad Ahsan Qureshy filed the lawsuit, citing breach of contract and serious copyright infringement concerns.
Qureshy claims he worked for seven months on the show and managed all photography during the initial production phase.
He alleged that his payments and necessary expenses were never finalised despite his long and continued involvement with the project.
Qureshy told the media: “The matter is not just about me.”
“I am not the only one whose payments have not been cleared.
“There are multiple individuals whose dues are pending, and their professional relationship with the company and Pakistan Idol has deteriorated.”
The plaintiff stated that the last round of filming occurred during the gala stage, which featured many themed segments.
These episodes included a special wedding festival and a colourful Basant round, but no further filming has taken place.
The absence of a grand finale has raised many questions about whether the current season will ever be completed.
Sources within the production company confirmed that the financial difficulties facing Pakistan Idol have become very severe and ongoing.
The Merchant Holdings Private Limited reportedly failed to market and sell the show effectively within the local Pakistani market.
The company acquired the rights for three seasons but struggled to generate the revenue required to sustain the production.
Poor financial management and weak commercial performance have caused the project to stall before reaching the final stage.
Reports suggest the studio setup for the show has been dismantled, though this information could not be independently verified.
The Merchant Holdings issued a statement claiming they remain fully committed to the show and all its talented contestants.
The company stated that the recent delays were partly due to Ramadan and various prevailing global circumstances this year.
They expressed a strong intention to resume the project and promised that their comeback would be “worth the wait”.
Qureshy confirmed that the court has taken cognisance of the case and he intends to present the complete evidence.
He urged the public to refrain from speculation and allow the ongoing legal process to take place.
There has been no official response from the defendants or representatives regarding the specific allegations mentioned in the suit.
Muhammad Ahsan Qureshy has sought a declaration for recovery of damages along with a permanent injunction against the company involved.
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