In the aftermath of the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India has taken stringent digital action against several Pakistani celebrities. The government has reportedly banned the Instagram accounts of popular Pakistani actors and musicians in India, including Hania Aamir, Ali Zafar, and Mahira Khan, as part of a broader digital and diplomatic counter-strategy aimed at Pakistan.

Instagram Ban on Pakistani Artists in India

On April 30, users in India noticed that the Instagram profiles of several Pakistani film and television personalities were no longer accessible. Clicking on their accounts now displays a message stating that the content is “not available in your region due to a legal request.”

Among those affected are:

• Ali Zafar

• Hania Aamir

• Mahira Khan

• Sajal Aly

• Bilal Abbas Khan

• Sanam Saeed

• Imran Abbas

• Iqra Aziz

This move is seen as a targeted digital retaliation following the April 22 attack on tourists in Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which left several injured and triggered public outrage.

Interestingly, accounts of some other Pakistani celebrities, including Fawad Khan and Wahaj Ali, remain visible in India, suggesting that the action is selective and possibly ongoing.

Government Also Blocks 16 Pakistani YouTube Channels

This Instagram action follows the Indian government’s earlier decision to ban 16 Pakistani YouTube channels accused of spreading anti-India propaganda and inflammatory content. These include:

• Geo News

• Dawn News

• ARY News

• Samaa TV

• Shoaib Akhtar's YouTube Channel

These digital platforms were reportedly disseminating misinformation, inciting public unrest, and glorifying acts of terrorism, prompting India’s Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to issue takedown orders.

Broader Measures Against Pakistan Post-Pahalgam Attack

The digital crackdown is part of a multi-pronged response by India against Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror incident. Other actions taken include:

• Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty

• Closure of the Attari-Wagah Border

• Revocation of visas issued to Pakistani citizens

• Reduction of diplomatic staff in embassies on both sides

These steps reflect India’s intent to isolate Pakistan diplomatically and economically, particularly in the wake of repeated cross-border attacks and Pakistan’s alleged support for terror outfits.

Pakistan Responds with Its Own Measures

In retaliation, Pakistan has closed its airspace to Indian carriers, imposed a ban on bilateral trade, and condemned India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, calling it a “declaration of war.”

These escalating actions have heightened tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors, drawing international attention to the fragile peace in the region.

Conclusion

India’s decision to digitally sanction Pakistani celebrities is being seen as a symbolic yet impactful measure that sends a strong message in the current geopolitical context. While critics argue over censorship and freedom of expression, supporters view it as a necessary defense tactic amid a deteriorating security situation.

As the situation evolves, more such digital and diplomatic countermeasures are expected in the coming days.