Social media a/cs of Pakistani celebs stay blocked

NEW DELHI: The social media accounts of several Pakistani actors and cricketers remain blocked after it was reported that certain celeb accounts were now accessible to Indian users.

On Wednesday, Instagram accounts of certain Pakistan actors, including Mawra Hocane, Saba Qamar, Ahad Raza Mir, Yumna Zaidi, and Danish Taimoor, briefly appeared to be accessible to the Indian audience. This sparked outrage. However, as of Thursday morning these accounts continue to be withheld in country.

Upon searching for their accounts, users can see a message: "Account not available in India. This is because we complied with a legal request to restrict this content." However, YouTube channels of Shahid Afridi, Shoaib Akhtar and entertainment channels like Green TV are still available for viewing in India.

However, prominent Pakistani actors, such as Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, and Hania Aamir, are still not accessible to Indian users on Instagram, as their accounts remain blocked.

India had banned social media of several Pakistani actors and cricketers after they reportedly spewed anti-India content after Operation Sindoor , which was launched on May 7 in response to a terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives.

Earlier in April, India had announced a ban on 16 Pakistani YouTube channels for spreading provocative and communally sensitive content and misinformation against India, its Army and security agencies in the backdrop of Pahalgam attack.

The significant action followed recommendations of ministry of home affairs (MHA). These channels were found to be disseminating false and unverified information related to India's national security, foreign relations, and public order.