In a major digital crackdown following the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian government has banned 16 Pakistani YouTube channels — including several major news networks — for allegedly spreading anti-India propaganda and stoking communal tensions. Among those banned are prominent channels like Dawn, Samaa TV, ARY News, Bol News, and Geo News, which collectively had over 63 million subscribers.
The bans were reportedly issued on the recommendation of the Union Home Ministry, with the channels accused of spreading provocative, false, and communally inflammatory narratives targeting India’s security agencies and government. The clampdown follows the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, where 25 tourists and a local resident were killed in cold blood by militants.
Also facing the ban are YouTube handles of well-known Pakistani journalists like Irshad Bhatti, Asma Shirazi, Umar Cheema, and Muneeb Farooq. Even content related to sports and current affairs — like Samaa Sports, The Pakistan Reference, and Uzair Cricket — has been axed.
Those attempting to access the banned channels within India are now met with a warning stating: “This content is currently unavailable in this country because of an order from the government related to national security or public order.”
Meanwhile, the BBC has been issued a formal warning by the Indian government over what officials call “misleading and insensitive reporting”. The global broadcaster faced backlash for publishing a headline that read: “Pakistan suspends visas for Indians after deadly Kashmir attack on tourists” — a phrasing many felt suggested India was responsible for the attack. The Ministry of External Affairs has reportedly conveyed strong displeasure to the BBC’s India Head, Jackie Martin, and emphasized the need for responsible reporting, particularly in times of national crisis.
Tensions have escalated between India and Pakistan since the Pahalgam massacre. In response, India has suspended the Indus Water Treaty, halted visa services for Pakistani nationals, and is reportedly considering further diplomatic action. Pakistan, in turn, has threatened to terminate all bilateral pacts, including the historic Simla Agreement.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made it clear that retribution is imminent. “This attack was not just on tourists — it was an attack on the soul of India,” he declared. “We will raze every corner of the terror haven. The will of 140 crore Indians will crush terrorism.”
The government has vowed to track down and punish not only the perpetrators but also the narrative warriors and backers of terror, as India asserts its national security interests across digital and diplomatic arenas.
