India bans 16 Pakistani YouTube channels for spreading false narratives

India has taken significant action against misinformation by banning 16 YouTube channels from Pakistan for disseminating provocative and misleading content targeting the country, especially its Army and security agencies. This move follows the deadly Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the loss of innocent lives and heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. The Ministry of Home Affairs, prompted by the aftermath of the attack, recommended this ban to address the spread of false narratives that sought to create panic and stir communal tensions among the Indian populace. Among the banned channels are notable names like Dawn News, ARY News, and Geo News, which collectively had an extensive reach of over 63.08 million viewers. These channels were particularly active in spreading fake news regarding sensitive topics such as the Indian Army and India’s foreign relations, capitalizing on the chaotic environment created post-attack. The official statement issued by the government emphasized that this ban was necessary to curb the flow of unverified information that could disrupt public order and safety. In response to the Pahalgam attack, which was executed by the Pakistan-based terror group The Resistance Front, India escalated its diplomatic measures against Pakistan. The Indian government summoned Pakistan's top diplomat in New Delhi and issued a Persona Non Grata notice to all Pakistani military attaches present in India. This diplomatic response reflects India's broader strategy to confront perceived threats from Pakistan, particularly in light of the ongoing tensions exacerbated by such attacks. Moreover, the Cabinet Committee on Security, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, outlined several stern measures including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and the cancellation of the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme for Pakistani nationals, indicating a shift towards more aggressive policies in dealing with security threats. Additionally, the closure of the Attari-Wagah border and the reduction of diplomatic staff at both countries' High Commissions further emphasize this drastic move, marking a significant moment in India-Pakistan relations as the tussle for narrative control and security intensifies.