The BBC is facing backlash in India for its coverage of the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians at a popular tourist spot in Jammu and Kashmir last week. The Indian government has sent a formal letter to Jackie Martin, the BBC’s India head, expressing the country’s strong displeasure over the article.
The controversy arose after the UK-based news outlet published an article with the headline: “Pakistan suspends visas for Indians after deadly Kashmir attack on tourists.” Many on social media flagged the headline for being misleading, suggesting it implied India was responsible for the deaths. Additionally, the government raised concerns over the use of the term “militants” to describe the terrorists involved in the attack.
Along with this, the Indian government has taken action to block 16 Pakistani YouTube channels, following recommendations from the Home Ministry. Banned channels include those of prominent news outlets such as Dawn, Samaa TV, ARY News, Geo News, and others, as well as individual journalists. Viewers attempting to access these channels will see a message stating that the content is unavailable due to a government order related to national security or public order.
This move aims to prevent the spread of inflammatory, communally sensitive content and false narratives targeting India and its security forces in the wake of the Pahalgam massacre. The government’s actions follow its decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty due to evidence linking Pakistan to the attack. Pakistan’s response has been to suspend all bilateral agreements with India, including the Simla Agreement. Tensions along the Line of Control have also escalated, with Pakistan reportedly violating the ceasefire and provoking Indian forces.
