India Expands Ban on Pakistani Public Figures Online

After the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu & Kashmir that killed at least 26 people, India blocked social media accounts of numerous Pakistani public figures, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, cricket captain Babar Azam, and celebrities such as Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, and Atif Aslam. The restrictions extended to over a dozen Pakistani YouTube channels, including those belonging to news outlets and former cricketers, citing national security and concerns over provocative content. Indian authorities defended the move as necessary, while critics argue it aims to stifle dissent and control the domestic narrative. The bans have sparked online debate and further strained India-Pakistan relations. Additional diplomatic actions include suspending visas and parts of the Indus Waters Treaty. The United States condemned the attack and expressed support for India's stance against terrorism.