The blocked channels were found disseminating provocative and communally sensitive content
New Delhi: In response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, the Centre on Monday ordered India-wide blocking of 16 Pakistani YouTube channels — including Dawn News, Samaa TV, Ary News and Geo News — for spreading “false and misleading narratives” and content designed to incite communal tensions against India, its Army and security agencies. Collectively, the shuttered channels account for over 63 million subscribers.
Among those barred are major networks Bol News, Rafta and Suno News, as well as individual journalists’ feeds run by Irshad Bhatti, Asma Shirazi, Umar Cheema and Muneeb Farooq. Niche outlets such as The Pakistan Reference, Samaa Sports, Uzair Cricket and Razi Naama also figure on the list. Blocked feeds now display YouTube’s notice: “This content is currently unavailable in this country because of an order from the government related to national security or public order.”
Government sources said the move followed recommendations by the Union home ministry, which flagged post-attack coverage as “provocative and communally sensitive.” A senior official added that similar representations have been made to the AP and Reuters.
Separately, the Ministry of External Affairs has sent a formal letter to Jackie Martin, the BBC’s Head of India, objecting to the broadcaster’s use of the term “militant” for the Pahalgam assailants. “The External Publicity Division of the MEA will monitor BBC’s ongoing reporting,” the official said.
Last week, the Centre advised Indian media outlets against live coverage of defence operations and troop movements, warning such reportage “may inadvertently help hostile elements.” The Information and Broadcasting Ministry’s advisory urged all platforms to “exercise utmost responsibility” and adhere to existing laws when reporting on security matters.
