A Pakistani television host gave away two babies on live television at the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan.

According to multiple reports, Aamir Liaquat Hussain, who is one of the country’s most popular stars, gave away two abandoned infant girls to childless families and there are plans to give away a baby boy this week.

 

The television host surprised viewers when he gave away two babies.

Speaking about the controversial move, which has been criticised by many as a move to boost ratings, Hussain said: “If we didn’t find this baby, a cat or a dog would have eaten it.”

Apparently the babies are ones that have been rescued by the Chhipa Welfare Association (a Pakistani aid organisation that search for discarded newborns). However Hussain has appealed for others via his website.

He wrote: “If any family cannot afford to bring up their newborn baby due to poverty or illness, then instead of killing them, they should hand over the baby to Dr Aamir.”

 

Two couples were presented with babies live on air last month.

The 41-year-old presenter has since defended the “giveaway” explaining that the children are not treated as competition prizes. He also claimed the parents are screened properly.

“It is not like parents come in the show, and (we) deliver the baby like a prize,” he told AFP before adding that it’s meant to help families.

“We are trying to create an environment in the society for those people who are ready and want to adopt babies... It is not commercialisation, it is not showbiz. It is real Islam.”