Tensions Rise as Instagram Blocks Pakistani Celebrities in India
In the wake of a devastating terror attack in Pahalgam, India has restricted the Instagram accounts of several Pakistani celebrities, including Hania Aamir and Mahira Khan. This move comes as relations between the two nations continue to deteriorate, following the attack that resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, primarily tourists.
While accounts of some Pakistani stars have been blocked for Indian users, others, such as Fawad Khan, Mawra Hocane, and singer Atif Aslam, remain accessible. This selective restriction has ignited curiosity and criticism on social media, leaving many to question the criteria behind Instagram’s choices. Users have expressed frustration over the double standard, noting that while Aamir and Khan’s accounts are unavailable, popular figures like Khan and singer Atif Aslam are still visible.
Instagram has addressed the issue, stating that the blocked accounts comply with a "legal request to restrict this content" in India. Other affected celebrities include Ali Zafar, Sanam Saeed, and Sajal Aly, who also see their profiles displaying an "Account not available" message for users in India.
The situation escalated further with India’s recent ban on 16 Pakistani YouTube channels, targeting media outlets for broadcasting provocative content perceived as harmful to India. This tightening of access to Pakistani content comes on the heels of the Pahalgam attack, claimed by the Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba’s proxy, The Resistance Front (TRF).
In response to the attack, India announced significant measures against Pakistan, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and downgrading diplomatic ties. As tensions rise, the impact on cultural exchanges remains uncertain, with many advocating for dialogue rather than division.
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