India Blocks Social Media Accounts Of Pakistani Celebrities Again After Uproar
Delhi/Hyderabad, July 3 (Maxim News): In a renewed move to curb cross-border digital influence, India has once again blocked access to the social media accounts of several Pakistani celebrities, citing national security concerns and public outrage following the Pahalgam terror attack earlier this year.
The social media accounts—previously unblocked on Wednesday—were swiftly restricted again on Thursday morning after Indian netizens expressed anger over their reinstatement. Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) profiles of popular Pakistani figures such as Mahira Khan, Hania Amir, Shahid Afridi, Fawad Khan, and Mawra Hocane became inaccessible from within India.
Background of the Ban
Following the April 2024 terror attack in Pahalgam, India imposed digital restrictions on numerous Pakistani media outlets, YouTube channels, and individual influencers, alleging that they were spreading misinformation, inciting violence, and promoting anti-India narratives. The action was based on recommendations from the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Among those affected were prominent media organizations like:
- Dawn News
- Geo News
- Samaa TV
- Suno News
- The Pakistan Reference
In addition, even the YouTube channel of former cricketer Shoaib Akhtar was restricted in India for allegedly broadcasting provocative and sensitive content.
Public Outcry Leads to Swift Action
When the ban was briefly lifted this week, there was nationwide backlash, particularly on social media. Users demanded an immediate reinstatement of the block, arguing that it was inappropriate to allow platforms to voices from across the border amid ongoing tensions and unresolved terrorism-related issues.
No Official Word Yet
Despite the renewed restrictions, no formal announcement has been made by the Indian government. However, the non-accessibility of these profiles from Indian IP addresses clearly indicates action has been taken again, likely at the behest of national security agencies.
This latest move underscores India’s firm stance on digital sovereignty and security, especially regarding content from Pakistan that may influence public sentiment or propagate disinformation.
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