Pakistan bans Indian songs on all FM stations

The Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA) has banned the broadcast of Indian songs on all FM radio stations under its jurisdiction following the Indian ban on Pakistani media.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has described the ban on Indian songs on FM radio stations as a “principled and patriotic” move. In an official statement, the ministry emphasized that the decision demonstrates national solidarity during a critical period. “This patriotic gesture reflects the collective sentiment of the nation,” the statement read.

Information Minister Attaullah Tarar also commended the Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA), praising the decision as a stand for “national dignity and sovereignty.” In a letter addressed to PBA Secretary General Shakeel Masud, Tarar expressed gratitude for the association’s independent action and highlighted the media’s vital role in fostering national unity.

“This initiative reaffirms the nation’s determination,” Tarar wrote, applauding the media’s contribution to advancing the government’s broader objective of promoting patriotism and social cohesion.

India had blocked the Instagram accounts of several Pakistani celebrities — including actors Mahira Khan, Hania Aamir, Ali Zafar and Olympic javelin star Arshad Nadeem — from being accessed.

Earlier India had also banned 16 Pakistani YouTube channels which include major Pakistani news outlets such as Dawn, Geo News, ARY News, Bol News, Samaa TV, Suno News, and Raftar.

YouTube channels of prominent journalists, including Irshad Bhatti, Asma Shirazi, Umar Cheema, and Muneeb Farooq, were also banned.