YouTube has blocked the official channel of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in India, citing directives from the Indian government amid growing diplomatic tensions following the April 22 attack in Pahalgam.
According to emails issued by the platform, the ban was imposed in response to a government order relating to national security and public order. Future uploads on the channel will also remain restricted within Indian territory.
The move is part of a broader crackdown by the Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on content it deems to be promoting “false narratives.” Critics, however, view the action as an attempt to suppress alternative perspectives regarding the Pahalgam incident.
One of the videos removed from the channel included a recent speech by Prime Minister Sharif, which was reportedly taken down following a formal complaint from Indian authorities. The channel, which often features official addresses and policy briefings, had published content related to Pakistan’s position on recent cross-border developments.
YouTube confirmed that the Prime Minister has been granted the right to appeal the decision.
Earlier this week, India also blocked access to 16 Pakistani YouTube channels based on recommendations from the Ministry of Home Affairs. The ministry accused these channels of disseminating disinformation targeting India’s government, armed forces, and security agencies.