Mumbai – In a significant move reflecting escalating diplomatic and security tensions, the Indian government appears to be extending its crackdown on Pakistani nationals into the digital realm. Following the horrific terrorist attack in the Baisaran Valley of Pahalgam last week that claimed the lives of at least 26 tourists, including foreign nationals, several Instagram accounts belonging to prominent Pakistani celebrities have been blocked for users in India.
Among the most notable names affected are acclaimed actresses Hania Aamir and Mahira Khan, whose Instagram profiles are now completely inaccessible in India. When Indian users attempt to visit their accounts, the message displayed reads: “Account not available in India. This is because we complied with a legal request to restrict this content”.
The digital restrictions are seen as part of a broader set of stern measures undertaken by India in response to the attack, which has further deepened mistrust between New Delhi and Islamabad. Pakistan continues to be under international scrutiny for allegedly providing safe haven to terror outfits operating across the border.
Interestingly, not all Pakistani celebrities have been affected by the ban—Fawad Khan, a leading actor with a considerable fanbase in India, still has his Instagram account accessible to Indian users. Similarly, the popular musical duo behind the global hit “Pasoori”, Ali Sethi and Shae Gill, also remain visible on the platform from within India.
This selective restriction has sparked speculation online, with many questioning whether the bans are being applied gradually or based on GPS data and IP tracking, rather than as part of a blanket policy. While there has been no official confirmation from the Indian government or Meta (Instagram’s parent company), the timing of the digital blackouts aligns closely with heightened national security measures and travel restrictions for Pakistani nationals.
India’s response to the Pahalgam terror attack has included the suspension of several cross-border arrangements, including the Indus Waters Treaty, closure of the Attari Integrated Check Post, and cancellation of SAARC visa exemptions previously available to Pakistani citizens.
Despite the current digital and diplomatic strain, there remains a significant cultural connection between the two nations, particularly in film and music. In October 2023, the Bombay High Court dismissed a petition seeking a ban on Pakistani artists, stating that the arts promote unity and peace beyond political divisions.
However, the recent Instagram restrictions on select Pakistani stars indicate a more complex and evolving stance—one that seems to weigh heavily on national sentiment and geopolitical realities.
