Govt cracks down on anti-India propaganda; Pakistani content faces major pullout across Indian media.
Mumbai: Reacting swiftly to the Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 dead, the Indian government has blocked 16 Pakistani YouTube channels for spreading provocative and false content aimed at disturbing public order and national security.
The Ministry of Home Affairs recommended the move, targeting major Pakistani outlets like Dawn News, Samaa TV, ARY News, Geo News, Bol News, and Suno News. Channels operated by journalists such as Irshad Bhatti, Asma Shirazi, Umar Cheema, and Muneeb Farooq were also blocked, along with platforms like The Pakistan Reference, Samaa Sports, Uzair Cricket, and Razi Naama.
The government has also formally protested against the BBC’s coverage, criticizing its use of the term “militants” for terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack.
Officials said these platforms were spreading misinformation against India’s army and security agencies, especially after the brutal attack that claimed the lives of 25 tourists and a local resident.
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting invoked emergency powers under the Information Technology Rules, 2021, to execute the ban.
Meanwhile, Indian media companies have begun cutting ties with Pakistani entertainment. Sony Pictures Networks India and FanCode have stopped airing Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches. Zee Entertainment has pulled Pakistani shows from ZEE5 and its Zee Zindagi YouTube channel.
Adding to the fallout, the release of Pakistani actor Fawad Khan’s film Abir Gulaal in India is now facing strong opposition, underlining a growing backlash against Pakistani content.