Instagram Accounts of Pakistani Celebrities Blocked Following Pahalgam Terror Attack

In the aftermath of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 people, mainly Hindu tourists, dead, the Indian government has initiated a digital crackdown on Pakistani content accessible in the country. As part of this move, several Instagram accounts of popular Pakistani celebrities have been blocked for Indian users.

Celebrities Affected by the Ban

Among the affected public figures are Mahira Khan, Hania Aamir, Ali Zafar, Sajal Aly, Sanam Saeed, Bilal Abbas, Iqra Aziz, Imran Abbas, and Momina Mustehsan. When Indian users attempt to access these profiles, they receive a message stating: “Account not available in India. This is because we complied with a legal request to restrict this content.”

YouTube Channels Also Face Action

This action forms part of a broader effort by Indian authorities to curb content perceived as provocative or misleading in the current politically sensitive climate. In addition to the Instagram bans, 16 Pakistani YouTube channels—including leading news outlets like Geo News, Dawn News, ARY News, and Samaa TV—have also been restricted for allegedly promoting misinformation and communal unrest.

Mounting Diplomatic Fallout

The digital clampdown follows heightened diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan. India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, closed the Attari-Wagah border, and downgraded diplomatic relations. In retaliation, Pakistan has suspended visa services for Indian citizens and closed its airspace to Indian airlines.

Also read: India Bans Shoaib Akhtar’s YouTube Channel Along with 16 Pakistani Platforms After Pahalgam Attack

Backlash and Clarifications

The move has sparked reactions from Pakistani celebrities and the public. Actress Hania Aamir, whose name was falsely linked to an inflammatory comment, clarified that the quote was fabricated and stressed the importance of compassion and justice over baseless accusations. Interestingly, accounts of prominent Pakistani figures like Fawad Khan and Atif Aslam remain accessible in India, suggesting selective enforcement. Even the Pakistan Government’s official social media handles remains blocked in India post Pahalgam Terror Attacks.