Indian Government: In a robust move following the horrific Pahalgam terror attack. The Indian government has now suspended 16 Pakistani YouTube channels. The channels, with a total of about 63 million subscribers, were accused of posting communally sensitive and inflammatory content and disinformation against India and its security forces. The move is part of an across-the-board effort to combat disinformation and provide national security.
The April 22, 2025, Pahalgam terror attack took the lives of 26 people, among whom were tourists. The attack was referred to as one of the worst attacks in the area since the 2019 Pulwama attack. Following the attack, there has been heightened tension between India and Pakistan. With the government putting strict measures on platforms posting such content.
The banned YouTube channels are the prime Pakistani news channels like Dawn News, Samaa TV, ARY News, Bol News, Raftar, Geo News, and Suno News. These sites have been charged with spreading false and forged news, especially about India’s Army and security agencies. The Ministry of Home Affairs proposed the ban to spread misinformation and preserve communal harmony.
With a total subscription of 63 million, the blocked channels boasted a great penetration across borders. By blocking the channels, what the Indian government aims to do is prevent the dissemination of material that has the capability to mobilize riots and inflame passions. Through the move, the government sends the clear message on what India’s zero-tolerance policy against propaganda and fake news is all about.
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The Indian government’s move to ban 16 Pakistani YouTube channels. It is an expression of its quest for national security as well as fighting false narratives. Regardless of the step generating controversies over freedom of speech as well as morality of media. It emphasizes responsibly sharing, particularly in times of heightened tension. As things keep happening, the decision proves to be a timely reminder about the role of the media in forming public opinion and ushering in peace.