India has escalated its digital crackdown by banning popular Pakistani drama channels on YouTube, including ARY Digital, Har Pal Geo, and Hum TV, following the deadly Pahalgam attack on April 22. This move, believed to be recommended by the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs, has sparked disappointment among fans and content creators, as Pakistani dramas had cultivated a loyal audience in India for over a decade.
Viewers attempting to access these channels are greeted with a notice stating: “This content is currently unavailable in this country because of an order from the government related to national security or public order.”
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Impact on Indian Viewers:
This ban affects millions of Indian households who had grown fond of Pakistani drama series known for their nuanced storytelling, relatable family themes, and short episode formats. Shows like Zindagi Gulzar Hai, Mere Humsafar, and Tere Bin had become beloved fixtures on Indian television since their rise to prominence in 2016. Pakistani stars such as Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, Wahaj Ali, and Yumna Zaidi had gained immense popularity, becoming household names across the border.
Inconsistent Enforcement:
Interestingly, the ban’s enforcement appears inconsistent. Some Indian networks, such as Jio, still provide access to the banned content, despite a government notice on the homepage. This selective enforcement raises questions about the motivations behind the censorship.
Escalating Censorship:
This move is part of a broader crackdown on Pakistani content. Earlier, India blocked 16 Pakistani YouTube channels accused of spreading “provocative” or “misleading” content. The current wave of censorship extends to entertainment platforms, even those with no political messaging, raising concerns about freedom of expression and the impact of such political retaliation on cultural exchange.
Political Fallout:
The ban on Pakistani drama channels is just one element of a broader escalation in tensions following the Pahalgam attack. India has taken various retaliatory actions, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, banning Pakistani actors in Indian films, and now silencing cultural exchange through digital platforms. Cross-border projects, like Fawad Khan and Vaani Kapoor’s upcoming film Abir Gulaal, have reportedly been blocked by both countries, as political tensions continue to rise.
Despite these digital bans, Pakistani content remains resilient, with fans continuing to enjoy it through alternative platforms, signaling the enduring popularity of Pakistani drama across the globe.
