Islamabad, 30 April 2025: Major Pakistani entertainment channels like HUM TV, ARY Digital, and Geo Entertainment have been blocked in India, disappointing drama fans across the border.
The move follows heightened tensions between the two countries after a deadly attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, on April 22.
Though no formal statement has been made by the Indian government, attempts to access the social media pages of these channels result in a message citing national security concerns.
A similar message appears on the accounts of prominent Pakistani celebrities such as Hania Aamir, Mahira Khan, and Ali Zafar, which have also reportedly been restricted.
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The restrictions follow India’s ban on 16 Pakistani YouTube channels and news platforms over alleged misinformation about the Pahalgam attack.
Pakistan, however, has denied any involvement in the incident and called for an independent investigation.
Social media saw an outpouring of frustration from Indian fans, many of whom shared error messages and expressed sadness over the sudden disappearance of their favourite dramas.
Some joked about using VPNs to watch shows like Humraaz, while others criticised the ban as an unnecessary cultural divide.
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Pakistani dramas such as Zindagi Gulzar Hai, Humsafar, and Mere Humsafar have developed a devoted Indian following over the years, praised for their strong storytelling and emotional depth.
While many fans lamented the cultural shutdown, some users on Indian social media celebrated the action, describing it as a long-overdue step.
The move marks a significant shift in digital censorship, as it extends beyond news to include entertainment and lifestyle content.
Critics argue that such measures further strain cultural ties and reduce opportunities for people-to-people engagement between the two nations.
