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The Indian government has banned sixteen YouTube channels from Pakistan, collectively amassing 63 million subscribers, for propagating inflammatory and socially sensitive material in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terrorist incident. This decision follows recommendations from the Union Home Ministry. Among the channels prohibited are those linked to major news organizations like Dawn, Samaa TV, ARY News, Bol News, Raftar, Geo News, and Suno News. Additionally, the channels run by journalists Irshad Bhatti, Asma Shirazi, Umar Cheema, and Muneeb Farooq are also included in the ban. Others affected are The Pakistan Reference, Samaa Sports, Uzair Cricket, and Razi Naama.
Government sources indicate that these channels have been involved in spreading provocative narratives and misinformation regarding India, its armed forces, and security agencies, particularly in the wake of the Pahalgam attack that resulted in the deaths of 25 tourists and a local Kashmiri at the hands of terrorists. Individuals attempting to view these channels will receive a notification stating: “This content is currently unavailable in this country due to government orders concerning national security or public safety. For further information regarding government removal requests, please refer to the Google Transparency Report.”
Amid accusations that Pakistan played a significant part in the Pahalgam attack, India has implemented strict measures, such as halting the Indus Water Treaty and ceasing visa services for Pakistani nationals. Islamabad has countered, asserting its right to suspend all agreements with India, including the Simla Agreement. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has promised severe consequences for those responsible for the April 22 attack, emphasizing that India will identify and punish all terrorists and their supporters, asserting that the nation's resolve remains unbroken.
"From Kargil to Kanyakumari, there is sorrow and anger. This assault targeted not only innocent tourists but also struck at the very heart of our nation," the Prime Minister stated. He proclaimed that the time has arrived to dismantle any remnants of terrorist sanctuaries and insisted that the determination of 1.4 billion people will overcome the architects of terror.
The government has also expressed concerns to the BBC regarding a headline that suggested, "Pakistan suspends visas for Indians after deadly Kashmir attack on tourists." Several social media users criticized the wording, interpreting it as implying that "India was responsible for killing the tourists." The External Publicity Department of the Ministry of External Affairs has reportedly communicated the country's "strong sentiments" to Jackie Martin, the BBC's India Head. A formal complaint was also lodged regarding the terminology used by the BBC, which referred to terrorists as militants. The government plans to keep a close eye on the BBC's coverage moving forward.
