India Bans Pakistan-Origin Content on OTT Platforms Amid Tensions
The Indian government, through the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, has directed OTT platforms, streaming services, and digital intermediaries to immediately stop streaming Pakistan-origin content, including web series and films. This advisory comes amid heightened tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack and India's retaliatory strikes (Operation Sindoor). The move aims to counter the wave of fake news and propaganda allegedly emanating from Pakistan.
Unpacked:
The ban follows the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, attributed to militants from Pakistan, and subsequent retaliatory strikes by India (Operation Sindoor). Rising tensions and concerns over fake news and propaganda from Pakistan prompted the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to order the removal of such content from Indian streaming platforms.
Yes, Pakistan has repeatedly banned Indian films and TV content since the 1965 India-Pakistan war. These bans have often coincided with political or military tensions, and have sometimes been lifted temporarily, only to be reimposed after new disputes or incidents, especially over Kashmir.
Pakistani web series, films, and music have a notable fan base in India, with popular actors, musicians, and shows attracting Indian audiences. The ban is considered a setback for Pakistan’s entertainment industry, which benefits from substantial Indian viewership and revenue.
The ban reduces cultural exchange, affecting artists and audiences in both countries. Pakistani creators lose access to the large Indian market, while Indian viewers lose exposure to Pakistan’s entertainment industry. Such bans reinforce political divides and diminish opportunities for cross-border collaboration and understanding.