Ishrat Fatima is a senior PTV and Radio Pakistan newscaster who has served the media industry for nearly three decades. She became a household name across Pakistan due to her iconic 9:00 pm news bulletin on PTV. She rejoined PTV as a mentor in 2026, soon after her retirement from newscasting. Ishrat Fatima has also been successfully running her YouTube channel, where she often shares her views on important issues.
Recently, Ishrat Fatima shared a video on her YouTube channel in defense of film star Meera and gave her take on the Meera–Irshad Bhatti controversy.
Talking about it, Ishrat Fatima said, “When you interview someone, the sole purpose is to elevate them and portray a positive image to others. My approach to interviews was to discuss with guests what they were comfortable sharing, so that nothing went in bad taste. Sometimes, I even removed parts from interviews that guests did not want others to know; this was done with mutual understanding. Unfortunately, Meera has always been unnecessarily called out. She has been labeled as psycho, mental, or foolish, but I have always been inspired by her because she never lashed out at anyone and instead faced bullying with patience. She never shouted; she took everything with a smile. She was trolled for her English—who even speaks perfect English here? Have you ever seen cricketers who play well but struggle to give speeches in English? That does not devalue their talent. At least Meera tries to speak it; many of us don’t even try.”
She further added, “Besides this, countless times people have mocked her and engaged in character shaming. Interviewers question her about past relationships and cases, yet she remains calm and does not respond. Please talk about her work—you invited her to promote her film. If you only want to criticize, then speak against the real evils of society, but that is where people hesitate. Meera always gives respect in return. I am shocked at anchors who try to force her to talk about her personal relationships. Also, after the backlash, it was said that she was invited as a paid guest. Yes, it is her bread and butter—but being paid does not mean she should be asked humiliating questions. It is shameful.” Watch here:
