Instagram Accounts of Hania Aamir, Ali Zafar, and Mahira Khan Banned in India Amid Crackdown on Pakistani Content

Quick Summary:

• On April 30, Instagram accounts of Pakistani celebrities, including Hania Aamir, Mahira Khan, Sajal Aly, and Ali Zafar, were banned in India following the Pahalgam terror attack that occurred on April 22.
• The Pahalgam attack resulted in the deaths of 26 unarmed tourists and left several injured.
• Indian authorities issued a blanket ban on Pakistani artists in response to the incident.
• When searching for these accounts on Instagram from India, users see a message stating content is restricted due to compliance with legal requests.
• Social media handles of other high-profile Pakistani actors like Fawad Khan and Atif Aslam remain accessible as of now.
• YouTube channels such as shahid Afridi’s have previously been banned for alleged provocative content targeting Indian Armed Forces; major Pakistani news channels are also barred from India.
• Background: Bollywood has historically collaborated with several Pakistani actors like Mahira Khan (Raees), Ali Zafar, Mawra Hocane, and other stars prior to recent tensions.

indian Opinion Analysis:

The banning of social media accounts belonging to prominent Pakistani celebrities reflects heightened measures taken by Indian authorities after escalating bilateral tensions following incidents such as the deadly Pahalgam terror attack. While culturally notable collaborations between Bollywood and artists from pakistan have long been celebrated by audience members across both nations, this move signals an increasing prioritization of national security concerns over artistic exchange.

Legally restricting digital access highlights India’s growing emphasis on controlling details flows perceived as sensitive or controversial during moments of conflict. Though necessary actions may aim at ensuring security during heightened cross-border hostilities, this step also raises questions about its impact on softer diplomatic ties through cultural avenues like film or social media engagement.The accessibility status for some prominent figures suggests incremental enforcement rather than uniform request.

India’s decisive response might set a precedent for continued scrutiny surrounding entertainment contributions linked to entities within its neighbor amid political strain.Read More: https://www.republicworld.com/entertainment/hania-aamir-ali-zafar-mahira-khan-s-instagram-handles-banned-in-india-after-crackdown-on-provocative-pakistani-youtube-channel