Instagram account of several Pakistani actors, including Hania Aamir and Mahira Khan, blocked in India

In the wake of the Pahalgam terrorist attack, the Indian government has stepped up its action against Pakistan, targeting not just cross-border movement but also extending measures to the digital space.

Several Pakistani Instagram accounts, including those of prominent actors Hania Aamir and Mahira Khan, have been blocked in India.

Users trying to access these profiles now see a message stating: "Account not available in India. This is because we complied with a legal request to restrict this content."

However, the Instagram accounts of actor Fawad Khan, along with 'Pasoori' hitmakers Ali Sethi and Shae Gill, remain accessible.

This has led to speculation that either the authorities are still catching up on certain accounts or that the blockades are based on GPS location.

India cracks down on Pakistani YouTube channels

The move comes days after India banned 16 Pakistani YouTube channels for allegedly spreading communal, inflammatory, and false content targeting India, its Army, and other security agencies.

According to official sources, these bans were carried out on the recommendations of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

“The Government of India has banned several Pakistani YouTube channels for disseminating provocative and communally sensitive content, false and misleading narratives, and misinformation,” a government official told ANI.

Pakistani artists have been absent from the Indian film industry since the 2016 Uri terror attack.

Actor Fawad Khan, who was set to return to Indian cinema with Abir Gulaal alongside Vaani Kapoor, saw his film withheld from release in India.

Fawad's last Indian release was Ae Dil Hai Mushkil in 2016.