Winning Bizness Desk
Mumbai. In response to escalating tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack, the Indian government has mandated all OTT and streaming platforms to remove Pakistani content immediately. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting issued this directive citing national security concerns under the Information Technology Rules, 2021. This encompasses the removal of Pakistani films, web series, music tracks, and podcasts, including works by artists like Atif Aslam and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan. Additionally, Pakistani-origin podcasts and voice-based content available on Indian platforms are to be taken down.
Ban Imposed on 16 Pakistani YouTube Channels
Earlier, on April 27, the Indian government banned 16 Pakistani YouTube channels for disseminating provocative and misleading content against India, its Army, and security agencies. The banned channels include prominent news outlets such as Dawn News, Samaa TV, ARY News, Bol News, and Geo News. These channels collectively had over 63 million subscribers and were found to be spreading disinformation related to India's national security and public order.
FWICE Warns Against Collaborations with Pakistani Artists
The Film Federation of Western India Cine Employees (FWICE) has issued a stern warning stating that any Indian individual or entity collaborating with Pakistani artists will face charges of sedition and be banned from the Indian film industry. This directive has already impacted projects such as Fawad Khan's film "Abir Gulal," which will no longer be released in India, and Hania Aamir's replacement in the film "Sardar 3."
Historical Context of Bans on Pakistani Artists
The ban on Pakistani artists working in India dates back to the 2016 Uri attack, after which artists like Mahira Khan and Fawad Khan had to withdraw from Indian films. In 2023, the Bombay High Court dismissed a petition seeking to ban Pakistani artists, stating that artists should not be penalized due to political tensions. This led to a brief period where Pakistani artists were again featured in Indian cinema, until the recent resurgence of bans following the Pahalgam attack.
Broader Diplomatic and Digital Measures
In addition to content bans, India has implemented several measures affecting diplomatic and digital relations with Pakistan. These include the closure of the only open land border, suspension of airspace for each other's airlines, and the banning of mutual port visits by ships. India has also restricted visa issuance for Pakistanis and recalled existing visa holders. In the digital realm, India has blocked Pakistani social media accounts and YouTube channels, further intensifying the information war between the two nations.
Summary of Key Developments:
Immediate Removal of Pakistani Content: All OTT platforms in India are required to remove Pakistani films, web series, music, and podcasts.
Ban on 16 Pakistani YouTube Channels: Channels like Dawn News and ARY News banned for spreading disinformation.([OrissaPOST][3])
FWICE's Strict Warning: Collaborations with Pakistani artists may lead to sedition charges and industry bans.
Impact on Film Projects: Fawad Khan's "Abir Gulal" and Hania Aamir's role in "Sardar 3" affected.
Historical Bans Reinstated: Previous bans from 2016 have been reinforced following recent attacks.
Diplomatic Strains: Closure of borders, suspension of airspace, and visa restrictions implemented.
Digital Crackdown: Blocking of Pakistani social media accounts and YouTube channels to curb misinformation.
