Valentine’s Day celebrations banned in Pakistani capital

Judge prohibits public events in Islamabad and says the day is against Islamic teachings

People buy flowers to celebrate Valentine’s Day, in Islamabad, Pakistan. File photograph: BK Bangash/AP Photo
People buy flowers to celebrate Valentine’s Day, in Islamabad, Pakistan. File photograph: BK Bangash/AP Photo

A Pakistani judge has banned Valentine's Day celebrations in the country's capital, saying they are against Islamic teachings.

The judge ruled on a petition seeking to ban public celebrations of Valentine's Day in Islamabad, court official Niaz Saleh said.

He said the order has been sent to Pakistan’s media regulator to ensure a blackout on any Valentine’s Day promotions in print or electronic media.

Islamist and right-wing parties in Pakistan view Valentine's Day as a vulgar Western import.

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