Meta has blocked access to the widely followed Instagram account @Muslim, which boasts over 6.7 million followers, in response to a legal request from the Indian government. The move, announced by account founder Ameer Al-Khatahtbeh, has ignited accusations of censorship as tensions soar between India and Pakistan.
Indian Instagram users attempting to view the page were met with a notification stating the account was restricted due to a legal directive. Khatahtbeh condemned the action, calling it a clear attempt to silence one of the most influential platforms reporting on global Muslim affairs. “Meta has blocked the @Muslim account by legal request of the Indian government. This is censorship,” he stated.
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The timing of the restriction coincides with renewed hostilities between the two nuclear-armed neighbours, following deadly military exchanges and mutual accusations of cross-border aggression. The @Muslim account, known for highlighting issues affecting Muslim communities worldwide, has vowed to continue its work despite the ban.
This development adds to a broader crackdown on digital platforms in India, which has previously blocked Pakistani YouTube channels and social media accounts of prominent Pakistani figures. Meanwhile, calls for peace and mediation continue to emerge from the international community.
