Khalil-ur-Rehman in hot water after Marvi row

Screenwriter Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar, well known for his recent hit drama serial Mere Pass Tum Ho, became embroiled in a heated argument with journalist Marvi Sirmad during a TV talk show.

The writer was on a talk show debating the consequences of the Lahore High Court's decision to scrap the petition trying to block Aurat March 2020.

He shared why he believes that slogans such as "mera jism meri marzi" trigger his fragile masculinity.

Speaking at the talk show, he said his heart breaks when people like Marvi Sirmad lift such slogans for Aurat March.

At this point, Marvi tried to taunt him by saying the words “mera jism meri marzi”, that unleashed the disgusting vitriol from the writer.

Giving answer to Marvi in a disrespectful way, Khalil-ur-Rehman said: “tere jism mein hai kya?”, “uloo ki pathi”.

Acclaimed actress Mahira Khan took this issue on twitter and wrote: “I am shocked at what I have just heard and seen!! Sick to the core. This same man who abused a woman on TV is revered and given project after project because of what? We are as much to blame if not more for perpetuating this thinking.”#khalilurrehmanqamar

Singer-cum-actor Haroon Shahid said: Just saw the obnoxious incident between Khalil Saab and Marvi Sirmad. I see people writing "You can't talk to a lady like that" and that's where the problem lies. It's not a matter of gender. You can't talk to anyone like that! Not even an animal. Khalil Saab is a disgrace.”

The musician-turned-social worker, Shezad Roy said: “Don't understand the problem so many are having with #MeraJismMeriMarzi"-Mera jism meri marzi nahi toh kis ki marzi ho gi?? "My body is mine" is a critical component of the Life Skills Based Education classes we teach to help children protect themselves from abuse & harassment.”

Earlier, Kinnaird College for Women cancelled an interactive talk with Khalil-ur-Rehman, who claimed to be "the biggest feminist in Pakistan" after students opposed the move to invite the playwright, whose views on women have ignited controversy.

According to local reports, the backlash came as a result of the drama writer's controversial opinions and derogatory remarks about women from a few days ago as students, including alumni, protested his invitation to the girls college.

Several users of social media praised Kinnaird College, stating that the move was "behtareen (most excellent)" and "well done."

“Continue to call him out until he acknowledges it and apologise for his bigotry, and until it begins to show that he has changed,” said a social media user.