'No one turns violent from watching TV dramas'

Director and producer Erma Fatima insists that local films and television dramas should not be blamed or banned for depicting bullying. The 58-year-old filmmaker maintains that these productions often mirror real-life social issues. She argues that by exposing viewers to the dangers of bullying, such stories serve to raise awareness.

Erma asserts that if TV dramas or films containing elements of bullying are prohibited, the solution would be to ban social media and video games as well. However, she points out that there are numerous documented cases linked to obsession with violent games, yet no instances of individuals turning violent merely from watching a TV drama.

Following requests from various groups to halt productions showing bullying scenes out of fear of copycat behavior, Erma advises critics to judge the stories in their entirety rather than just brief clips. She notes that filmmakers follow strict guidelines set by the Film Censorship Board (LPF). She clarifies that her dramas are regulated by the LPF and that the creators have not lost their minds to promote bullying. Each scene contains a deeper context and message, which becomes clear when the full story is watched.

Erma emphasizes that these productions aim to raise public awareness about the crisis affecting young people. She questions why filmmakers tell these stories in the first place, pointing out that far too many bullying cases are occurring. Rather than sweeping these issues under the carpet, she believes that raising awareness is crucial to eradicating bullying.