India Bans Social Media Accounts Of Pakistan Actors, Cricketers Again

In a surprising turn of events, the social media accounts of several Pakistani actors and cricketers have been banned in India again, NDTV reported.

The accounts of some public figures were briefly made accessible on Wednesday, sparking outrage among netizens. Among those whose Instagram accounts reappeared in India were actors Mawra Hocane, Saba Qamar, Ahad Raza Mir, Yumna Zaidi, and Danish Taimoor. Additionally, the YouTube channels of cricket icons Shahid Afridi and Shoaib Akhtar also became visible once again.

But the accounts of prominent Pakistani celebrities such as Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, and Hania Aamir remain inaccessible in India, with users receiving a standard message stating: "Account not available in India. This is because we complied with a legal request to restrict this content."

Sharp Reactions

The sudden partial rollback of these digital restrictions triggered sharp reactions online. Many citizens took to social media to question the move, calling it a silent retreat from India's previously firm stance following the Pahalgam terror attack in April, which claimed 26 civilian lives. The attack had led to the launch of Operation Sindoor, under which the Indian government blocked several Pakistani YouTube channels and social media accounts for allegedly spreading anti-India propaganda and provocative content.

Among those restricted were top Pakistani news channels including Dawn News, Geo News, ARY News, and Samaa TV. Entertainment platforms such as Hum TV, ARY Digital, and Har Pal Geo were also banned alongside the Instagram accounts of various Pakistani celebrities who were accused of making insensitive remarks following the attack.

The reappearance of some of these accounts while others remain blocked raised fresh questions about the criteria for restriction and whether more accounts will be restored in the coming days.

AICWA's Strong Reaction

Reacting strongly to the development, the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) issued an urgent appeal to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling for an outright and permanent ban on all Pakistani social media accounts, entertainment content, and news channels in India. The association stated that allowing the digital presence of Pakistani artists and influencers was an "insult to the sacrifice of our martyred soldiers" and a "deep emotional wound for families affected by terrorism."

AICWA's statement further emphasized that any relaxation of the ban undermines the sentiments of millions of Indians who continue to bear the scars of terror attacks allegedly backed by Pakistan.

India and Pakistan's relationship hit new low following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. Apart from launching Operation Sindoor, India suspended the Indus Water Treaty, implemented an immediate ban on all imports and exports and took several other measures.