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Pakistani Actors Instagram Handles Blocked in India

Pakistani Actors Instagram Handles Blocked in India Post Pahalgam Attack

Pakistani Actors Instagram Handles Blocked in India

Pakistani Actors Instagram Handles Blocked in India Post Pahalgam Attack: – In a shocking development following the Pahalgam terror attack that rocked Kashmir on April 22, Instagram accounts of several prominent Pakistani actors including Hania Aamir, Mahira Khan, and Ali Zafar have become unavailable for Indian users. When fans try to access these profiles, a message flashes: “Account not available in India. This is because we complied with a legal request to restrict this content.”

This move is reportedly part of India’s larger crackdown on Pakistani content and artists, citing rising diplomatic tensions and national security concerns.

Full List of Affected Pakistani Celebrities

Apart from Hania, Mahira, and Zafar, the following actors’ Instagram profiles are also restricted in India:

  • Sanam Saeed
  • Bilal Abbas Khan
  • Iqra Aziz
  • Imran Abbas
  • Sajal Aly

However, Instagram handles of actors like Fawad Khan and Wahaj Ali are still accessible, raising questions about the selective enforcement.

What Triggered the Ban?

The tragic Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 led to the death of 26 innocent tourists and injured dozens. The attack occurred in Baisaran Valley, popularly known as “Mini Switzerland”, when armed terrorists opened indiscriminate fire on a tourist group.

Pakistani Actors Instagram Handles Blocked in India Post Pahalgam Attack

The incident left the entire nation in mourning, and also reignited longstanding tensions between India and Pakistan. As part of a strict national response, the Indian government is reportedly increasing pressure on social media platforms to restrict Pakistani content.

Social Media in Uproar Over Account Restrictions

The sudden disappearance of these Instagram accounts has left Indian fans disappointed and confused. Many users took to Twitter (now X) to express their sadness, pointing out that art and entertainment should remain above politics and conflict.

“Why should fans suffer? I followed Hania Aamir for her energy and style. This is heartbreaking,” wrote one user.

Artists’ Condolence Messages Ignored?

Interestingly, both Mahira Khan and Hania Aamir had posted heartfelt condolences for the victims of the Pahalgam attack. However, that does not seem to have prevented the ban from taking place.

Pakistani Actors Instagram Handles Blocked in India Post Pahalgam Attack

Additionally, India has banned 16 Pakistani YouTube channels accused of spreading provocative and communally sensitive content.

Fawad Khan’s Bollywood Comeback in Jeopardy?

In related developments, Fawad Khan, who was all set to return to Bollywood with Abir Gulaal alongside Vaani Kapoor, is also facing heat. Reports suggest that the film has not only been banned in India but has now also been banned in Pakistan, further escalating the cross-border cultural divide.

The disappearance of Pakistani celebrities from Indian Instagram feeds marks a new chapter in digital censorship tied to geopolitical tensions. While national security remains paramount, it opens up a wider debate — should art, artists, and fans pay the price for political decisions?

As of now, there’s no official statement from Instagram or Meta on whether this is a temporary measure or a permanent restriction.