Revival of Pakistani Social Media Access in India Post-Ban Lift

Several Pakistani social media accounts and YouTube channels, previously blocked in India following the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025, have become accessible once again. This development has raised concerns among various Indian groups, including the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA), prompting them to address a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking intervention.

Instagram accounts belonging to Pakistani celebrities such as Mawra Hocane, Yumna Zaidi, Ahad Raza Mir, and Danish Taimoor are now visible from India. However, accounts of other Pakistani stars like Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, and Hania Aamir remain inaccessible. Additionally, YouTube channels operated by Pakistani cricket figures Shahid Afridi, Shoaib Akhtar, and Rashid Latif have also reappeared for Indian users.

Previously blocked Pakistani television channels, including Hum TV, ARY Digital, and Har Pal Geo, are now available for viewing in India. These platforms were initially blocked after the Indian government issued a directive on May 8, instructing all media platforms to eliminate Pakistani content citing national security concerns.

In its appeal, the AICWA expressed, "It is distressing to see Pakistani actors' accounts being accessible once more. This deeply affects the sentiments of Indians, particularly those who have lost loved ones in terror attacks orchestrated by Pakistan." The association perceived this development as an affront to the memory of soldiers who perished in such attacks.

The initial bans were implemented following the tragic Pahalgam attack on April 22, which resulted in 26 fatalities. In retaliation, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting terrorist encampments in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The ensuing conflict, characterized by airstrikes, drone attacks, and missile exchanges, persisted for four days until both nations agreed to a ceasefire by May 10.

Although hostilities ceased, the online restrictions remained in effect. The reappearance of certain Pakistani social media accounts has now sparked confusion and concern, prompting many to question the rationale behind the lifting of the ban and the government’s current stance on the issue.