MediaNet censors Peppa Pig over same sex characters

MediaNet has discontinued streaming the popular children's show, Peppa Pig, which had recently launched new characters who are a same sex couple.

The only indication this programme has been removed is the ‘Deleted’ notice MediaNet has begun to air on screen when the show comes up on channel Nick Junior. The show is aired in more than 180 countries around the world. 

The same sex characters that were introduced in Pegga Pig are two female polar bears, who are shown as "two mommies" in an episode called 'Families'. The daughter cub becomes friends with the main character of the series Peppa.

Maldives Broadcasting Act states that any content prohibited by Islam, the constitution or laws of the Maldives cannot be broadcast including any content that encourages the contemplation of a religion other than Islam. This is required to be included in the code of practice followed by the Broadcasting Commission.

MediaNet has not clarified whether they have stopped showing all Peppa Pig episodes,  or only the episodes showing the homo-parenting couple. The show features the adventures of Peppa the sow, who loves to laugh and jump with both feet in mud puddles. The little one is always surrounded by her little brother George the pig and their parents.

The Peppa Pig show is a world-renowned favourite among children, and adults. The show generates an annual income of USD 9.6 billion (MVR 148 billion).

Meanwhile, some Islamic countries in the Middle East have issued warnings to Netflix for streaming shows and movies that violate Islamic principles.