THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK
New Delhi, April 28: In a major move, India has banned 16 Pakistani YouTube channels, including Dawn News, SAMAA TV, ARY News, BOL News, and Geo News, for allegedly spreading provocative, communally sensitive content and misinformation targeting India, its Army, and security agencies.
The action comes in the wake of the tragic terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, and follows recommendations from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
The banned list also features channels like Irsha Bhatti, Raftar, The Pakistan Reference, SAMAA Sports, GNN, Uzair Cricket, Umar Cheema Exclusive, Asma Shirazi, Mujeeb Farooq, Suno Newz, and Razi Naama.
Combined, these platforms command a significant audience with more than 63 million subscribers.
Also Read- Mid-week heavy rain forecast in Jharkhand, mercury drops sharply
According to government sources, the decision aims to curb the spread of false narratives and misleading information that could disturb communal harmony and undermine India’s security interests.
In addition to the YouTube crackdown, authorities have acted against several social media posts that allegedly distorted facts related to the Pahalgam incident.
Further, concerns were raised over the BBC’s coverage of the event, particularly the language used to describe terrorists.
A formal complaint has been filed with the BBC, and a letter has been sent to the BBC India Head. The government has indicated that close monitoring of BBC’s reporting will continue.
