In the wake of terrorism and the growing intersection of National Security and Digital Media, the Indian government has launched a massive sweeping crackdown on social media influencers, content creators and platforms accused of glorifying terrorism. This bold move, triggered by the terror attack in Pahalgam, signals India’s extended counter-strategy in retaliation, one which extends beyond the battlefield and into the world of virtual influence.
Action On Digital Platforms
A Parliament Panel has expressed its concerns over some social media influencers and platforms, allegedly “working against the interests of the country which is likely to incite violence”
The panel has further requested the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology to provide “contemplated action to ban such platforms under IT Act 2000 and Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021”.
Scrutiny Begins- End of Anti-National Influence
Post the Pahalgam Terror Attack, the government has already banned more than a dozen Pakistani Youtube channels including the news outlets, Dawn, Samaa TV, ARY News, Bol News, Raftar, Geo News and Suno News for allegedly spreading ‘provocative’ content. These channels attempted to create a ‘separatist mentality’ and influence their audience with anti-national theories.
These sites were blocked in India with a message reading that it was due to an “order from the government related to national security or public order”.
Aftermath of Pahalgam Attack
The attack in Pahalgam, executed by five militants, targeting tourists in the Baisaran Valley has not only shook the entire nation but also triggered divisive and hateful content online. The rise in Islamophobic sentiments is spreading like wildfire throughout social media. In times where people turn to social media as their news outlet, regulating and monitoring content is crucial.
Seize, Restrict, Warn and Block
Govt has already blocked the Instagram handles of Pakistani actors and singers such as Fawad Khan, Hania Amir, Sanam Saeed, Ali Zafar, Mawra Hocane, Adnan Siddiqui, Mahira Khan, atif Aslam and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan. Upon accessing the accounts of these actors, a message is displayed to the users that reads , “Account not available in India. This is because we complied with a legal request to restrict this content.”
Pakistani Cricketers such as Shahid Afridi, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf’s accounts are also unavailable in India citing a similar message.
Not only them,but the Youtube channel and Insta account of Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif along with the X (formerly known as Twitter) accounts of former Pak PM Imran Khan and ex-minister Bilawal Bhutto have also been blocked in India amidst the rising tensions between the two countries.
Final Words
Social Media Influencers and Content Creators, Beware! We are currently at the brink of War and digital platforms, accessed by all, are under scrutiny. The government ensures that digital platforms and creators will be held accountable for their actions in shaping public opinion or endangering national security. Yes, you still have your Freedom of Speech but the line between free expression and national security is critically debatable.
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