Several Pakistani actors and cricketers saw their social media accounts briefly become visible in India on Wednesday, but they were soon blocked again. Instagram profiles of popular stars like Mawra Hocane, Saba Qamar, Ahad Raza Mir, Yumna Zaidi, and Danish Taimoor could be seen for a short time, but are now inaccessible.
Meanwhile, YouTube channels belonging to cricketers Shahid Afridi and Shoaib Akhtar are still available in India. However, accounts of other famous Pakistani stars like Mahira Khan, Fawad Khan, and Hania Aamir remain blocked. Users trying to access them see a message saying the content is not available due to a legal request.
Interestingly, after almost two months, some Pakistani entertainment channels such as Hum TV, ARY Digital, and Har Pal Geo are back and streaming in India.
Soon after these accounts became visible, the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In their letter, they strongly opposed the online presence of Pakistani artists, calling it disrespectful to Indian soldiers who died in terror attacks.
PRESS RELEASE
— All Indian Cine Workers Association (@AICWAOfficial) July 2, 2025
Date: 2nd July 2025
From: All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA)
Subject: Urgent Appeal to Honourable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji Regarding the Reappearance of Pakistani Artists’ Social Media & Channels in India – AICWA Demands Immediate and… pic.twitter.com/YQf0d6wZRz
AICWA made three demands:
- A complete digital ban on Pakistani social media accounts and media channels in India.
- A stop to all collaborations with Pakistani artists in Indian films, OTT platforms, and advertisements.
- A permanent cultural separation from Pakistan as a sign of respect for the armed forces and families of martyrs.
The situation has once again sparked a debate about cultural exchanges, emotions tied to national security, and the role of entertainment in cross-border relations.
