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India has lifted its ban on Pakistani dramas and entertainment content shown on YouTube channels and, allowing Indian viewers to access them once again.
The ban was originally imposed in the aftermath of an attack in Pahalgam, occupied Kashmir, on April 22, 2023.
In response to the attack, the Indian government blocked several Pakistani news channels, social media accounts of celebrities, and YouTube channels broadcasting Pakistani dramas, citing national security concerns.
Channels like ARY Digital, Geo TV, and Hum TV were among those affected by the ban.
The action led to a drop in the popularity of Pakistani dramas in India, where these shows have a large following.
Recent reports indicate that the Indian government has now lifted the restrictions, allowing Indian viewers to watch Pakistani dramas on YouTube without the need for VPNs , Although Indian authorities have not issued an official statement regarding this restoration, media experts suggest that this move could be part of an effort to reduce digital tensions between the two countries and to restore dialogue.
Pakistani dramas are immensely popular in India, which is why when the ban was imposed, there was a noticeable dip in the viewership of Pakistani dramas on digital platforms. With the ban lifted, it is expected that these dramas will regain their previous viewership.
Additionally, Indian users are also claiming that they are now able to see posts from some Pakistani celebrities on their timelines, indicating that the ban on some celebrities’ accounts may also have been lifted.
While the official reasons for the decision remain unclear, the move is being viewed as a positive step toward reducing digital barriers and restoring cultural exchange between India and Pakistan.
