Following a series of significant security measures, the re-emergence of numerous Pakistani social media accounts and YouTube channels in India has sparked controversy. These accounts, which were previously blocked in response to the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, have once again become accessible to Indian internet users. This development has elicited strong reactions from various Indian groups, including the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA), which has formally reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for intervention.
Among those accounts now visible from India are those belonging to popular Pakistani celebrities such as Mawra Hocane, Yumna Zaidi, Ahad Raza Mir, and Danish Taimoor. However, some high-profile names, including Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, and Hania Aamir, remain inaccessible. Notably, Pakistani cricket personalities, including Shahid Afridi, Shoaib Akhtar, and Rashid Latif, have also seen their YouTube channels reinstated.
The reversal of the ban on prominent Pakistani television channels such as Hum TV, ARY Digital, and Har Pal Geo has raised further eyebrows. These channels, which had been blocked as part of the Indian government’s advisory issued on May 8, were part of strict measures taken for national security in the wake of the violent events that transpired in Pahalgam.
In its correspondence with the Prime Minister, the AICWA has expressed deep concern over the unblocking of these accounts, stating, “It is very upsetting that Pakistani actors’ accounts are visible again. This hurts the feelings of Indians, especially those who lost family in terror attacks caused by Pakistan.” Furthermore, the organization emphasized that the reappearance of these accounts serves as an affront to the memories of soldiers who sacrificed their lives combating terrorism.
The stringent measures, which included the online bans, followed the tragic Pahalgam attack on April 22, where 26 individuals lost their lives. In retaliation, India initiated Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting terrorist camps situated within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This military engagement lasted four days, marked by significant airstrikes and the use of drones and missiles from both sides, ultimately leading to a ceasefire agreement by May 10.
Despite the cessation of hostilities, the online restrictions remained firmly in place. However, with the recent unblocking of certain Pakistani accounts and channels, many are left questioning the rationale behind lifting the bans and seeking clarity on the government’s current media policy regarding Pakistan. The growing concerns reflect a broader unease among the Indian populace, particularly in light of the emotional scars left by past terror attacks.
