‘Tere Bin’ Writer defends Marital Rape scene

Yumna Zaidi and Wahaj Ali’s latest offering, Tere Bin, which was previously lauded by many, is now being called out for its ‘unnecessary plot twist’.

In episode 46 of the popular drama, we see Ali’s character, Murtasim, apparently forcing himself on his wife Meerab (Zaidi) as the credits roll.

Moreover, in the promo for the next week’s episode, it’s implied that Tere Bin will now include the theme of marital rape.

The said sudden change in a fan-favourite character has sent shockwaves through the fanbase of the drama serial.

Many called out the show and its writer for the unnecessary downfall of Murtasim’s character arc.

However, the latter has now opened up about the criticism.

Nooran Makhdoom, the writer of Tere Bin, said in an interview with Arab News:

“It’s a situation which was the demand of the serial that will lead to the climax.

“If the audience isn’t getting it, I can’t change it. It’s just a drama.

“They should wait for the entire story to unfold instead of taking issue with every episode.”

The writer went on to add that neither the content team nor the production house objected to the new storyline.

She added: “It’s not like this has happened onscreen for the first time.

“It’s just that this project has received such wide recognition that people reacted strongly to the recent twist.”

Makhdoom further shared that the infamous spitting and slapping scene in the last episode wasn’t included in the original script.

It was later tweaked during the shooting. And she stands by the scene and the script.

Nooran told the publication: “If you speak of my social responsibility, I created a story and I stand by it.

“And this is not an unusual occurrence; it has happened before.”

It is pertinent to mention that previously, Imran Ashraf and Iqra Aziz’s popular venture, Ranjha Ranjha Kardi, too, was criticised for including marital rape in the show.

Many social media users shared their anger and reservation about the upcoming episode.

One Twitter user wrote: “Gimme back my old Murtasim Khan with whom we all fell in love.

“I’m still hoping & praying that the promos are misleading.”

Another added: “Will I finish Tere Bin or will Tere Bin finish me?”

Others, however, are finally glad for the audience to break free from the shackles of the ‘problematic’ show.

A Twitter user said: “Tere Bin fans cancelling their show and Murtasim’s character I guess time to celebrate.”

The upcoming episode will air next week.