New Delhi — may 3, 2024 —
In response to the April 28 Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian government blocked various pakistani YouTube channels, igniting further tensions.The action, which included channels of former cricketer Shoaib Akhtar, came after the attack in Kashmir, where 26 people, primarily tourists, lost their lives. This has lead to a crackdown on digital platforms and has sparked debate on the future of sporting ties, notably cricket. Experts are closely monitoring the fallout.
India Blocks Pakistani YouTube Channels After Pahalgam Attack
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New Delhi – In a move reflecting heightened tensions, the indian government blocked several Pakistani YouTube channels, including that of former cricketer Shoaib Akhtar, on Monday, april 28. The action follows the Pahalgam terror attack in the Kashmir valley, which resulted in the deaths of 26 people, predominantly tourists.
Crackdown on Digital Platforms
The Ministry of Facts and Broadcasting confirmed that Shoaib Akhtar’s channel was among 16 others banned for allegedly spreading misinformation and anti-India propaganda. These platforms collectively boast approximately 63 million subscribers. major Pakistani news channels such as Dawn News, Samaa TV, ARY News, Bol News, Raftar, Geo News, and Suno news were also included in the ban.
Did you Know?
The Information Technology Act of 2000 empowers the Indian government to block online content deemed a threat to national security and public order.
Political and Sporting Fallout
The Pahalgam attack has reverberated across political and sporting spheres. Rajeev Shukla, vice-president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), previously emphasized that India would cease bilateral cricket ties with Pakistan.Shukla condemned the attack, which was attributed to members of The Resistance Front, who targeted innocent tourists.
100 percent, India should do this (break ties with Pakistan). Strict action should be taken. It has turned out to be a joke that such things are happening every year. Terrorism cannot be tolerated.
Sourav Ganguly,former India captain
The last bilateral series between India and Pakistan occurred in 2013. Since then, matches have been confined to ICC events. India opted not to travel to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy earlier this year, instead playing all their matches in Dubai.
Government Response
Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured the nation of decisive action against the terrorists and their supporters following the attack.
Today from the soil of Bihar I say to the whole world. India will identify, track, and punish every terrorist and their backers.We will pursue them to the ends of the Earth.
Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India
Modi further stated:
India’s spirit will never be broken by terrorism. Terrorism will not go unpunished. Every effort will be made to ensure that justice is done. The entire nation is firm in this resolve.
Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India
Pro Tip
Stay informed by verifying news from multiple credible sources to avoid misinformation during times of heightened tension.
PSL Fallout: Indian Nationals Sent Back
adding to the escalating tensions, the Pakistani government sent back 23 Indian nationals working with the broadcast and production team of the pakistan Super League (PSL) on April 27. This move followed increased diplomatic and border tensions between the two countries.
A PCB official confirmed the repatriation, stating:
The Indian nationals all returned home via the Wagah border from Lahore.
PCB Official
These Indian cameramen and technicians were contracted by the company responsible for producing and broadcasting PSL matches.
