India Bans Pakistani Media Channels on Social Media

India launched a sweeping crackdown on social media on Monday, banning over a dozen Pakistani YouTube channels for allegedly sharing provocative content after a deadly attack in Kashmir.

According to Agence France-Presse, the banned platforms include major Pakistani media outlets such as Dawn, Samaa TV, ARY News, BOL News, Raftaar, Geo News, and Suno News.

Users in India attempting to access these channels were met with messages stating that the block was implemented by government order on grounds of national security or public order.

The Press Trust of India reported that a total of 16 channels were listed in a government statement, which cited the promotion of provocative content, the spread of false and misleading narratives, and the dissemination of anti-India misinformation as reasons for the ban.

Tensions between India and Pakistan have risen sharply following a militant attack last Tuesday in Pahalgam, in the Indian-administered region of Kashmir, which resulted in 26 deaths.

While no group has claimed responsibility, New Delhi has accused Islamabad of being behind the assault.

India’s Ministry of Information issued a notice on Saturday urging journalists and social media users to exercise maximum responsibility when covering issues related to national defense and security operations.

The advisory warned that premature disclosure of sensitive information could unintentionally aid hostile elements and jeopardize security efforts.

Social media platforms in India have since seen a surge in commentary related to the attack, with hashtags such as “war with Pakistan” and “eliminate Pakistan” trending on X (formerly Twitter).