Why Did India Block X Accounts of Imran Khan and Bilawal Bhutto?
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Synopsis
In a decisive move, the Indian government has blocked the X accounts of prominent Pakistani leaders, Imran Khan and Bilawal Bhutto, amidst rising tensions following a deadly terror attack. This article explores the implications of these actions and their impact on India-Pakistan relations.
Key Takeaways
- India blocks X accounts of Imran Khan and Bilawal Bhutto for anti-India content.
- 16 Pakistani YouTube channels banned for spreading misinformation.
- Action taken following Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26.
- India enhances diplomatic measures in response to security threats.
- Increased tensions between India and Pakistan as a result.
New Delhi, May 4 (NationPress) — On Sunday, the Indian government took the decisive step of blocking the X accounts of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the Chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party, and Imran Khan, the former Prime Minister of Pakistan and founder of the PTI. This action was prompted by their dissemination of anti-India sentiments and inflammatory content in light of the current volatile situation.
Previously, India had already restricted access to the official X handle of the Government of Pakistan and the account of Defence Minister Khwaja Asif. The X account of Information and Broadcasting Minister Attaullah Tarar was also withheld shortly after he alleged that India was preparing for a military strike, citing “credible intelligence”.
This latest measure followed a horrific terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which tragically claimed the lives of 26 individuals and left many others injured.
In addition to blocking X accounts, India has prohibited 16 Pakistani YouTube channels for propagating provocative and communal content, along with spreading false narratives aimed at undermining India's image, military, and security forces.
The Government of India made this decision based on advice from the Ministry of Home Affairs, following the chilling events in Pahalgam.
The banned channels include Dawn News, Irshad Bhatti, SAMAA TV, ARY NEWS, BOL NEWS, Raftar, The Pakistan Reference, Geo News, Samaa Sports, GNN, Uzair Cricket, Umar Cheema Exclusive, Asma Shirazi, Muneeb Farooq, SUNO News HD, and Razi Naama. These channels were found to be disseminating misinformation that jeopardizes India's national security, foreign relations, and public order.
Collectively, these channels reached a vast audience, reportedly in the crores, and contributed to panic, communal discord, and disturbances in public order in India, according to an official statement.
In the aftermath of the terror attack, India has initiated an assertive diplomatic response and implemented a series of stringent retaliatory measures. Prime Minister Narendra Modi condemned the assault as a “cowardly attack on innocent civilians.”
The incident, orchestrated by the Pakistan-based terror group The Resistance Front, has significantly heightened tensions between the two nations. In reaction, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), led by Prime Minister Modi, announced multiple stringent actions. These actions include the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, closure of the Attari-Wagah border, cancellation of the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme for Pakistani citizens, expulsion of military attaches from Pakistan in New Delhi, and a reduction of diplomatic staff at both High Commissions.
Point of View
It is crucial to adopt a balanced perspective. The actions taken by the Indian government are in response to a series of provocations and threats to national security. While freedom of expression must be upheld, it is essential to consider the broader implications of content that incites communal tensions or spreads disinformation. The government's measures are aimed at safeguarding public order and maintaining diplomatic integrity.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were Imran Khan and Bilawal Bhutto's accounts blocked?
The accounts were blocked due to their dissemination of anti-India content and inflammatory rhetoric amidst rising tensions between India and Pakistan.
What actions has India taken against Pakistani media?
India has banned 16 Pakistani YouTube channels for spreading provocative content and misinformation targeting India and its security agencies.
What triggered the recent escalation in tensions?
The escalation was triggered by a terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in numerous casualties and was claimed by a Pakistan-based terrorist group.
What diplomatic measures has India implemented?
India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, closed the Attari-Wagah border, and reduced diplomatic staff at both High Commissions among other retaliatory measures.
What is the significance of these developments?
These actions highlight the serious implications for India-Pakistan relations and underscore the importance of addressing security threats and misinformation.
