Government Blocks 16 Pakistani YouTube Channels; Criticizes BBC's Coverage of Pahalgam Attack

The Indian government has instructed YouTube to block 16 Pakistani channels, including major news outlets like Dawn News, Samaa TV, ARY News, BOL News, Geo News, and GNN. The decision was made due to these channels' alleged involvement in spreading provocative, communally sensitive content and misinformation aimed at undermining India, its armed forces, and security agencies. This action follows the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, South Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 people, most of whom were tourists.

A formal letter has been written to BBC terming terrorists as militants. (Reuters file photo)

Government Action and Banned Channels

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, acting on the Ministry of Home Affairs' recommendations, has taken steps against these Pakistani YouTube channels for their false narratives surrounding the Pahalgam tragedy. The banned channels collectively had over 63 million subscribers, and include both news outlets and individual content creators such as Dawn News, ARY News, BOL News, and Geo News. These channels have been accused of spreading misleading information about the attack, India’s army, and its security agencies.

The banned content is no longer accessible in India, and the government has warned that any future channels or posts found disseminating similar content will face similar consequences.

BBC's Reporting Under Scrutiny

In addition to blocking these YouTube channels, the Indian government has also addressed concerns over BBC's reporting of the Pahalgam attack. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) conveyed India’s dissatisfaction with the BBC’s use of the term “militants” to describe the terrorists involved in the attack. The government has formally communicated its objections, and the MEA’s XP division will continue to monitor BBC’s future coverage on the matter.

Rising Tensions and Ongoing Investigations

The attack in Pahalgam has exacerbated tensions between India and Pakistan, leading to India suspending the Indus Water Treaty and expelling Pakistani nationals. Additionally, there has been continuous cross-border firing, which India has retaliated against. In response to the attack, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has promised to track down those responsible. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has taken over the case, interrogating several individuals connected to terrorist activities.

Conclusion

The Indian government’s actions reflect growing concerns over misinformation and the ongoing conflict with Pakistan, particularly in the wake of the deadly attack in Pahalgam. The blocking of Pakistani YouTube channels and the scrutiny of foreign media outlets like the BBC indicate India’s commitment to controlling the narrative around national security and to maintaining public order in the face of cross-border terrorism.