Okay so I have been asked this question a lot.
Firstly, it is written no where on the cic page that IELTS is required for the study permit application unlike it is clearly mentioned for the Indians. IELTS is normally required by the University and they can choose to exempt it if you have been studying in an English medium school and have B or higher grade in Olevels. I would agree with
@Kad786. A good University will exempt it like since UofT and UWaterloo waives it for the above condition or if you have graduated from a University which is on their list for good language proficiency which is most of the Universities in Pakistan (apart from some really low ranked Universities).
Secondly, Yes many of my friends never appeared for IELTS and their study permit application was approved so yeah it isn't a requirement.
Thirdly, I have seen cases where applications were refused for "not submitting English test results" which is basically IELTS so it is not so black and white.
My opinion: You should appear for IELTS if you think you can get a good score. It isn't that difficult guys. IELTS liz is a website and a youtube channel; take help from there and you wont have a problem. Having 7 or 7+ in IELTS academic will not only avoid the risk of getting refused because of it but it will improve your chances since it is a proof that you will succeed in your academics in Canada. So don't take a chance. Give it because already they give a hard time to Pakistanis so don't give them another reason to do so. If so for some reason you can't give it then like i said, i have seen many people getting approved without it though i would highly recommend it.