India Slams BBC for ‘Misleading’ Report on Pahalgam Terror Attack

The BBC has come under fire in India for its reporting on the recent terror attack at a popular tourist spot in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam, where 26 civilians lost their lives. The Indian government has officially sent a letter to Jackie Martin, the head of BBC’s operations in India, expressing the country’s strong displeasure over the coverage.

Government Objects to “Misleading” Reporting

The controversy started after BBC published an article titled “Pakistan suspends visas for Indians after deadly Kashmir attack on tourists.” Many social media users pointed out that the headline was misleading and unfairly implied that India was responsible for the attack. The government has also criticized BBC for using the term “militants” instead of “terrorists” when describing those responsible for the massacre.

Crackdown on Pakistani YouTube Channels

In a broader move to control the narrative after the attack, the Indian government has blocked 16 Pakistani YouTube channels. This action was based on recommendations from the Home Ministry, aiming to prevent the spread of provocative and misleading content.

Among the blocked platforms are major Pakistani news outlets such as Dawn, Samaa TV, ARY News, Bol News, Raftar, Geo News, and Suno News. Additionally, the channels run by journalists like Irshad Bhatti, Asma Shirazi, Umar Cheema, and Muneeb Farooq have also been restricted. Other banned channels include The Pakistan Reference, Samaa Sports, Uzair Cricket, and Razi Naama. Users attempting to access these platforms in India now see a message saying: “This content is currently unavailable in this country because of an order from the government related to national security or public order.”

Action Linked to National Security Concerns

Government sources explained that the blocking of these channels was necessary to stop the spread of inflammatory, communal, and false information targeting India and its security forces, especially after the brutal killing of civilians in Pahalgam.

Rising Tensions Between India and Pakistan

These developments follow India’s decision to suspend the Indus Water Treaty after evidence linked the Pahalgam attackers to Pakistan. In addition, Pakistanis living in India were asked to leave the country by Sunday, while those on medical visas must depart by Tuesday.

In retaliation, Pakistan announced the suspension of all bilateral agreements with India, including the historic Simla Agreement.

Meanwhile, tensions have escalated along the Line of Control (LoC), with Pakistan repeatedly violating the ceasefire and attempting to provoke Indian troops.