New Delhi: In a significant development reflecting the escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the Instagram account of renowned Pakistani singer Atif Aslam has been blocked for users in India. This action follows a series of similar restrictions on Pakistani celebrities’ social media accounts in the wake of the recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam region.
Indian users attempting to access Atif Aslam’s Instagram profile are met with a message stating, “Account not available in India. This is because we complied with a legal request to restrict this content.”
The move comes shortly after the tragic incident on April 22, where 26 individuals, including 25 tourists, lost their lives in a terrorist attack in Pahalgam. The Resistance Front, a proxy group of the banned Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the attack.
In response to the attack, the Indian government has taken several measures, including downgrading diplomatic ties with Pakistan, suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, and revoking visa services for Pakistani nationals. Additionally, 16 Pakistani YouTube channels were banned for allegedly spreading provocative content and misinformation against India.
Atif Aslam, known for his popular Bollywood tracks such as “Tera Hone Laga Hoon” and “Jeene Laga Hoon,” has a significant fan base in India. The blocking of his Instagram account marks a notable shift in India’s digital and cultural stance amid the current geopolitical climate.
Other Pakistani artists, including actors Fawad Khan, Mahira Khan, Hania Aamir, and singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, have also seen their Instagram accounts restricted in India recently.
The Indian government’s actions underscore a broader strategy to address cross-border terrorism and its associated cultural influences. As tensions continue to rise, further measures impacting digital and cultural exchanges between the two nations may ensue.
